Things To Do
in Semey
Semey is a city in eastern Kazakhstan perched along the Irtysh River. Its wide avenues, Soviet-era architecture, and riverfront parks give it a distinctive frontier-city atmosphere. The city blends Kazakh, Russian, and other cultural influences, with museums, mosques, and markets to explore.
As a gateway to the Kazakh Altai foothills and eastern Kazakhstan, Semey makes a practical base for outdoorsy travelers and culture seekers alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Kazakh pastries and tea. After breakfast, take a guided walking tour of Semey's historic center, where you'll encounter beautiful architecture and learn about the city's rich history. Make sure to visit the iconic Abai Monument, dedicated to the famous Kazakh poet and thinker.
In the afternoon, continue your exploration at the Semey Regional Museum, where you'll find fascinating exhibits on local history, culture, and art. After soaking in the museum's offerings, enjoy a picnic lunch at the tranquil banks of the Irtysh River, surrounded by beautiful scenery. Spend some time walking along the river promenade, taking in the serene views and perhaps spotting local wildlife.
As the sun sets, head to a restaurant that specializes in traditional Kazakh cuisine for dinner, sampling dishes like beshbarmak and kuyrdak. Following dinner, take a stroll through the city center, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and local street performances. End your evening with a relaxing drink at a local bar, reflecting on your first day in Semey.
Begin the day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading to the Abai Museum, dedicated to the life and work of Abai Qunanbaiuly. As you explore the museum, you'll gain insights into his poetry and philosophy, which played a significant role in Kazakh literature. Participate in a workshop where you can learn about traditional Kazakh music and instruments.
After a morning of cultural enrichment, enjoy lunch at a nearby café, where the menu features dishes inspired by Abai's favorite foods. Post-lunch, visit the nearby Abai Kunanbayev Park, where you can take a leisurely walk and appreciate the natural beauty of the area. Engage with local artists displaying their work, and perhaps purchase a unique piece to remember your visit.
As evening approaches, attend a local theatre performance that showcases Kazakh folklore and storytelling. Enjoy the vibrant costumes and talented performances while immersing yourself in the region's cultural heritage. Wind down your day with a casual dinner at a local eatery, sharing stories and experiences with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🚕Taxi (1 km) | $0.50-1.00 |
| 🏨One-night stay in mid-range hotel | $25-70 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Cultural crossroads and rich history
- Gateway to eastern Kazakhstan
- Affordable costs and friendly locals
- Riverfront scenery and parks
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Winters can be extremely cold
- Language barrier outside urban areas
- Some services require basic Russian/Kazakh knowledge
- "Сәлеметсіз бе?" - Hello
- "Рақмет" - Thank you
- "Өтініш" - Please
- "Вы говорите по-английски?" - Do you speak English?
- "Где находится туалет?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Сколько это стоит?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Semey
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour photos along the wide river with boats and tree-lined embankments.
Wide avenues, statues, and grand buildings that glow at dawn or dusk.
Historic wooden houses and quiet lanes ideal for atmospheric street photography.
Food in Semey
Semey Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The national dish of boiled meat with noodles and onion sauce, often enjoyed with family.
Must-Try!
Fragrant rice with meat, carrots, and spices, commonly found in markets and eateries.
Steamed dumplings filled with meat and onions; served with broth or sour cream.
Horse meat sausage often served sliced as a festive or shared dish.
Light, fried dough bites perfect with tea.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Colorful market where you can sample kebabs, dumplings, fresh produce, and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake, brief eye contact; address elders with polite titles.
If invited home, bring a small gift; accept tea or snacks with both hands.
Dress modestly in public spaces; public displays of affection are subdued; remove shoes when entering certain homes if offered.
Safety
Tipping in Semey
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not compulsory; 5-10% in restaurants; rounding up taxis.
Cash (Kazakh tenge) widely accepted; major cards accepted in urban establishments; some places also accept mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; occasional thunderstorms; good for riverfront walks and outdoor markets.
Mild days with colorful foliage; comfortable for city strolls and photography.
Very cold with snow and gusty winds; dress in layers and plan indoor activities.
Cool but gradually warming; rain is possible and rivers rise with snowmelt.
Semey at Night
Hiking in Semey
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Casual day hikes and walks along the river valley with scenic viewpoints.
Short drives to forested hills offering panoramic views and easy to moderate trails.
Valley routes with gentle climbs and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Airports
How to reach Semey by plane.
Closest airport serving domestic and limited international flights; a short ride from the city center.
Major international hub farther away but commonly used for international connections.
Major international gateway in the south-east; alternative to connect to global destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group, Russian language widely understood in urban areas.
A sizable minority with a strong historical presence in the region.
Smaller communities from across Central Asia and beyond.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the city, with local clubs and parks for pickup games.
Winter sport with local amateur leagues and indoor rinks.
Equestrian activities reflecting regional traditions and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Semey.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Semey, opt for mushroom dishes, dumplings with vegetables, salads, and dairy-based meals; many places can adapt by using vegetable oil and avoiding meat.