This Almaty travel guide shares the best things to do in Almaty. ————– How to travel more and visit your dream destinations …
Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, is a vibrant metropolis nestled at the foothills of the Tian Shan mountains. It’s a city of contrasts, blending modern architecture with Soviet-era relics and stunning natural beauty. From its bustling markets to its serene mountain escapes, Almaty offers a unique travel experience. Here are 17 of the best things to do in Almaty:
Urban Exploration:
- Zenkov Cathedral: A stunning wooden cathedral, one of the tallest in the world, known for its intricate details and vibrant colors.
- Ascension Cathedral Park: The park surrounding Zenkov Cathedral, a pleasant place for a stroll and to observe local life.
- Panfilov Heroes Park: A memorial park dedicated to the soldiers who fought in World War II.
- Central State Museum: Explore the history and culture of Kazakhstan, including its nomadic heritage.
- Kolsai Lakes National Park: While a bit of a drive, these stunning mountain lakes are a must-see. They are often called the “Pearls of the Tien Shan.”
- Big Almaty Lake: Another beautiful lake nestled in the mountains, perfect for a day trip.
- Medeu Ice Rink: A high-altitude ice skating rink, once the largest in the world. Even if you don’t skate, the views are impressive.
- Shymbulak Ski Resort: In winter, this is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. In summer, it’s a great place for hiking.
- Kok-Tobe Hill: Take the cable car up to Kok-Tobe for panoramic views of Almaty. There’s also an amusement park and a Beatles monument at the top.
- Republic Square: The central square of Almaty, often used for public events.
- National Museum of Kazakhstan: Learn more about the country’s art, history, and culture.
Markets & Shopping:
- Green Bazaar (Zelyony Bazaar): A bustling market where you can find everything from fresh produce to spices to traditional clothing.
- Central Market: Another large market offering a variety of goods.
Culture & Arts:
- Kazakh State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre: Catch a performance at this beautiful theater.
- A.V. Seleznev State Art Museum: Explore works by Kazakh and Russian artists.
Nature & Outdoors:
- Ile-Alatau National Park: Offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, trekking, and climbing.
- Altyn-Emel National Park (Singing Dunes): A bit further afield, but worth the trip to experience the unique “singing dunes.”
Tips for Visiting Almaty:
- Getting there: Almaty International Airport is the main airport serving the city.
- Getting around: Public transportation (buses, trolleybuses, metro) is available. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also common.
- Accommodation: Almaty offers a range of hotels and guesthouses.
- Best time to visit: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather. Summer can be hot, while winter is cold and snowy.
- Language: Russian and Kazakh are the official languages. English is spoken in tourist areas.
- Currency: Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT).
- Visa: Check visa requirements based on your nationality.
Food & Drink:
- Beshbarmak: A traditional Kazakh dish of boiled meat and noodles.
- Plov: A rice dish with meat and vegetables.
- Manti: Steamed dumplings.
- Kumis: Fermented mare’s milk.
- Shashlik: Grilled skewers of meat.
Almaty is a city that offers a fascinating blend of cultures, landscapes, and experiences. Whether you’re interested in exploring its urban attractions, venturing into the surrounding mountains, or simply immersing yourself in the local culture, Almaty has something to offer every traveler.
