What to visit in Almaty (city guide)

Panorama of Almaty city, photo by Deonisy Mit

29 best attractions in Almaty

Almaty is the cultural, historical and tourist center of Kazakhstan. The Almaty air harbor plays a major role in the development of regional tourism; the city’s airport is located at the junction of intercontinental flights from Europe and Asia, and national air carriers are rapidly developing.

Before moving on to the Almaty guide and description of the attractions of Almaty, the largest city in the republic, we would like to briefly go through the history of the city and Kazakhstan.

The Republic of Kazakhstan is the largest landlocked country in the world, located mainly in Central Asia, with a small part of the territory located in Eastern Europe. With an area of 2.7 million square kilometres, it is not only the largest country in Central Asia, but also the ninth largest country in the world.
Despite its huge size, Kazakhstan doesn't always get on many people's radar when it comes to the best tourist destinations. This is most likely due to a lack of information about the country and stereotypes.

Kazakhstan's geographical location is one of the many reasons that make it an interesting and unusual place to visit. The country borders China in the east, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan in the south, the Caspian Sea in the west and Russia in the north.
This neighbourhood gives rise to an interesting political, social and cultural history.

Ak Orda, residence of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Astana

Kazakhstan boasts an ancient history: the country was part of the Central Asian steppe and the route of the Great Silk Road. On the way to formation, the republic experienced periods of Mongol expansion from the XIII to XVIII centuries (Mongols, Dzungars), and became part of the Russian Empire in the XIX century.
After the 1917 revolution, Kazakhstan became a Soviet Socialist Republic, and during the Soviet era the country underwent a period of industrialisation and collectivisation of agriculture.
After more than half a century of communism, Kazakhstan gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.
Kazakhstan still maintains close ties with Russia, China and other regional powers, which is not surprising given its history and proximity.

Kazakhstan's long and complex history has created a multifaceted cultural experience, making it an incredibly interesting place to explore. There is no shortage of attractions and activities, and the beauty of the landscapes is sure to amaze the discerning traveller.

In the park named after 28 Panfilovites, Almaty

Listed below are the TOP of the best sights in Almaty that are worth visiting:

• The 28th Panfilov Heroes Park
• Ascension Cathedral
• Medeu skating rink
• Shymbulak Ski Resort
• Kok-Tobe Mountain
• Central State Museum of Kazakhstan
• Big Almaty Lake
• Park of the First President
• Green Bazaar
• Almaty Metro
• Almaty Central Mosque
• Botanical Garden of Almaty
• Almaty Opera House
• Central Park of Almaty
• Arasan bathhouse
• Almaty Museum of Folk Musical Instruments
• Almaty Television Tower
• Museum of the Kazakh Academic Drama Theatre
• Kok-Zhailau Plateau
• Charyn Canyon
• Sunkar Falcon Farm
• Astana Square
• Al-Farabi Kazakh National University
• Arbat
• Huns’ ethno-village
• Mountain resort ‘Oy-Karagai’
• Kaindy Lake
• Kolsai lakes
• Arba Wine vineyards

Mountain resort "Oi-Karagai" ("Mountain Tale"), Almaty region

Now that you know more about Kazakhstan, here is our list of the best attractions in the city and Almaty region.
We have included attractions located both in and outside the city of Almaty, including the best places in the city centre, as well as natural locations in Almaty region.
The list includes cathedrals, museums, popular recreation areas and many places where you can learn more about Kazakhstan.

Park 28 Panfilovtsev, one of the entrances, Almaty

1. Park named after 28 Panfilov heroes.
Named in honour of the soldiers and officers of the Panfilov Division who fought during World War II, Panfilov Park is a large park that serves as a recreation area for local residents and is also a war memorial.
The Memorial of Glory is a main pedestal and small memorial steles of the 28 Panfilov Guardsmen who defended Moscow from German troops in 1941, and serves as a symbol of patriotism and courage of Kazakhstanis. Today, tourists can visit the memorial and learn about the history of Kazakhstan's participation in World War II - admission is free.

The rest of the park features beautiful, wide, open spaces with walking and jogging paths - the perfect place to enjoy the greenery in the centre of Almaty. Here you can see families and campaigns of friends picnicking, playing ball or just having a good time.

Ascension Cathedral, Almaty

2. Ascension Cathedral.
Built between 1904 and 1907, the Ascension Cathedral has become a widely recognisable symbol of Almaty. Its architectural style and attractive interior and exterior décor make it popular not only among the faithful, but also among visitors. The exterior of the cathedral features bright colours and, most famously, five domes, while the interior is decorated with beautiful paintings and religious icons.

The cathedral was built entirely of wood without the use of nails. That's right, no nails!
In 1911 it survived a major earthquake, proving that the architect of the cathedral, Andrei Pavlovich Zenkov, was both a creative person and a remarkable engineer.

Today, the cathedral is still the active place of church services of the Russian Orthodox community in Almaty. Tourists and locals are allowed to visit the cathedral, also known as Zenkov Cathedral, free of charge.
Note: women inside the cathedral must have their heads covered (shawl or shawl). If you have not brought your own, there is a place in the cathedral with head coverings that can be used temporarily, returning them to their place at the end of your visit to the cathedral. It is not recommended for men to visit the cathedral in shorts.
More information about the service schedule can be found here.

Ice stadium "Medeu", Almaty

3. Medeu skating rink.
Summers in Kazakhstan are quite hot, but in the winter months the temperature drops significantly. During the year there are about 100 days with precipitation in the form of snow (60 days in the central regions). Accordingly, if you plan to visit Almaty in winter, be sure to skate on one of the world's highest ice rinks. You can rent equipment.

The Medeu skating rink is 1,691 metres above sea level and is located in the Medeu tract, not far from Almaty. Medeo is a large complex that is used as a training centre for Olympic athletes. Various ice competitions are also held here, about 320 world and country records have been set on the Medeu stadium's ice surface.
Medeu's official website is here.

The lower part of Shymbulak resort

4. Shymbulak ski resort.
After the Medeu stadium premises, ascend the slopes of one of the most popular ski resorts in Central Asia - Shymbulak ski resort. It is located on the Zailiyskiy Alatau mountain range, in the Small Almaty Gorge. You can experience the beauty and scale of Shymbulak by using the services of the resort's three cable cars.

Ski slopes of Shymbulak resort

The resort offers pistes with a standard level of difficulty and high quality, modern equipment. Ski lifts include gondolas and chairlifts, equipment hire and ski instructor service are available. Cafes, restaurants and boutiques will help to pass the time off the slopes.
In summer, Shymbulak offers mountain hiking and cycling trails, horseback riding and camping (the necessary camping equipment can be hired locally). You can spend time in the outdoor café with a glass of wine, a great way to socialise with friends while telling stories.
The resort's website can be found here.

Mount Kok-Tyube, photo by Deonisy Mit

5. Kok-Tobe Mountain.
Kok-Tobe Mountain is the highest point of Almaty, offering a marvellous view of the city landscape and the surrounding Tien Shan Mountains. Popular with tourists and locals alike, the top of the mountain can be reached by shuttle bus or Almaty cable car.

After reaching the top and appreciating the view, you can start sightseeing: a Ferris wheel, a mini amusement park (mostly with rides for small children), small roller coasters and the famous ‘bench’ in honour of the British rock band ‘Beatles’.
At the top of the mountain there are also restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops, a small park space with walking paths, beautiful gardens and lawns.
The website for the Kok-Tyube cable car and amusement park can be found here.

Central State Museum of Kazakhstan, Almaty (photo https://almatymuseum.kz/)

6. Central State Museum of Kazakhstan.
If you want to learn all about the history of Kazakhstan and the rich diversity of the Kazakh people, visit the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan. It is the largest art museum in Kazakhstan with collections covering cultural and spiritual history from ancient times to the present day.
The exposition presents the most significant periods of the country - from prehistoric times to the modern era - ancient artefacts, works of art, archaeological finds and much more.
There are detailed expositions on Kazakh ethnography and an extensive collection of fine art. The museum also houses the Presidential Hall, which showcases all of Kazakhstan's presidents and tells about the country's political history and the contributions of its leaders.

To visit the museum you should purchase an entrance ticket and double-check the opening hours, it is a place that is definitely worth a visit during your visit to Kazakhstan.
The official website is here.

Big Almaty Lake, photo by Deonisy Mit

7. Big Almaty Lake.
Big Almaty Lake is a popular attraction located in the mountains of Zailiyskiy Alatau, with incredible scenery and views. The lake is located thirty kilometres from the centre of Almaty. Situated 2,500 metres above sea level, the lake is filled with water that comes from glacial runoff, creating a beautiful pool of turquoise water of perfect colour.

Big Almaty Lake is ideal for hiking: there are several trails of varying degrees of difficulty above the lake, while the shores of the lake itself are off-limits. However, conditions vary depending on the weather and time of year, so be sure to check with reliable sources and the weather forecast before setting off.

Please note that when entering the Ile-Alatau National Park, you must pay an entrance fee. Tourists planning to visit the lake should bring documents in case of inspection by border control.

Park of the First President, Almaty (photo https://tengrinews.kz/tengriguide/)

8. Park of the First President.
You may have already learnt about the political and presidential history of Kazakhstan at the Central State Museum, but we also recommend visiting the Park of the First President. The Park was originally created in memory of the country's first president Nursultan Nazarbayev in 2001.
The park is located in the south-west of Almaty and includes beautiful gardens, recreation areas and fountains.

The park's gardens are green and open, with many visitors. Paved paths wind through the manicured grounds and fountains beckon children to play. Although signs clearly state that swimming in the fountains is forbidden, the truth is that children will always be tempted and find a way to cool off in the water. :-)
The park and grounds are free for visitors.

Green Bazaar, Almaty

9. Green Bazaar.
We recommend getting acquainted with local Kazakh cuisine at the lively Green Bazaar (officially called Green Market). Always full of visitors, both locals and tourists, the bazaar is the centre of activity in Almaty on Zhibek Zholy Street. It is the largest market in the city, selling fresh produce, meat, dairy products, spices and snacks, as well as local handicrafts, souvenirs, textiles and clothing.

Whether you want to shop, find a traditional snack, buy souvenirs or just look around, the Green Bazaar will give you an unforgettable introduction to Kazakh culture.
You'll immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of Kazakhstan, but don't forget to bargain! Bargaining is part of Central Asian culture, especially at bazaars, so don't be afraid to knock down the price!

Station named after Baurzhan Momyshuly, Almaty (photo https://metroalmaty.kz/ru)

10. Almaty Metro.
The Almaty Metro opened in 2011 and became the second metro in history in Central Asia. Construction took 23 years of painstaking work, which began in 1988 during the Soviet Union and then stopped after the collapse of the USSR. It took another 15 years (2005) before the project was brought back and resumed.

The Almaty Metro has only 11 stations on one branch, and additional lines are planned for construction in the coming decades. The metro is known for its pristine and artistic interior, which combines sleek, modern design with beautiful tiles, grand arches and traditional Kazakh artwork.
More information about stops, timetables and fares can be found on the official website here.

Central Mosque of Almaty, photo by Deonisy Mit

11. Almaty Central Mosque.
The Central Mosque of Almaty, with a capacity of 7,000 people, is one of the largest mosques in Kazakhstan. The mosque combines traditional Islamic architecture - minarets and domes - with additional modern elements. Visitors are invited inside to experience the cultural and spiritual beauty of the structure. As a place of worship, the mosque is characterised by serenity and tranquillity, making it an ideal place for reflection and quiet contemplation.

Note: A mosque is a place of worship, traditional customs require visitors to remove their shoes before entering the building and dress accordingly. For women, this means a conservative dress code of not exposing legs or shoulders and wearing a headscarf while inside. Men should also cover their arms and legs whenever possible.

Almaty Botanical Garden (photo by VisitAlmaty)

12. Botanical Garden Almaty.
The Botanical Garden is a paradise for nature lovers, with incredible biodiversity from all over Kazakhstan and other parts of the world. The Tien Shan Mountains loom in the background of the garden; the paths are perfect for strolling and the greenery is perfect for small picnics.
The Almaty Botanical Garden is not only a great place to take a break from city life, but also a place for botanical research. Scientists strive to preserve endangered plant species and conduct experiments on various topics related to the plant world.

For a large and busy city, Almaty certainly has plenty of gardens and green spaces, and this is what makes Almaty a great city to visit. The Botanical Garden emphasises the importance of this factor in the development of the city.
Information for visitors can be found on the official website here.

Opera and Ballet Theater named after Abai, Almaty, photo by Deonisy Mit

13. Almaty Opera Theatre.
Founded in 1933 as a music studio and transformed into a theatre in 1934, the Almaty Opera Theatre is one of the most prestigious and popular opera houses in Central Asia. The theatre is named after the famous and beloved Kazakh poet and composer Abai Kunanbayuly and is more officially known as the Kazakh State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet named after Abai.

The building is made in neoclassical style with majestic columns and is the cultural centre of Almaty.
A diverse repertoire of performances including opera and ballet.
Visit the official website to find out what's on the schedule and how to buy tickets.

The main entrance of Gorky Park, Almaty

14. Almaty Central Park.
Located in the Medeusky district of Almaty, Almaty Central Park is also known as Gorky Park (Central Park of Culture and Recreation). It is another urban park that is home to various types of trees, including elms, oaks, maples, aspens, pines, birches and spruces.

Originally founded in the mid-19th century, the park has undergone significant changes over the years. Today Almaty Central Park not only has many beautiful trees, gardens and lush open spaces, but also has a sports complex, cinema, cultural centres, restaurants and cafes. Almaty Central Park is another great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city streets.

The main entrance to the Arasan baths, Almaty

15. Arasan Baths.
Visit the Arasan Baths, a luxurious health complex that is not only a place worth visiting to pamper yourself, but also a place of historical significance. It was built on the orders of Kunayev, the first secretary of the Communist Party of Kazakhstan.

When visiting the Arasan baths you will go through several stages of bathing procedures, which include visiting different types of baths, steam rooms (Turkish, Finnish, Russian), as well as a relaxation area. The baths have separate rooms for men and women. If you wish, you can have a massage or scrub (for an additional fee). The spa is open from 8am to midnight from Tuesday to Sunday.
For opening hours and prices, please visit the official website.

Museum of Musical Instruments named after Ykhlas, Almaty

16. Ykhlas Museum of Folk Musical Instruments in Almaty.
If you want to do something unusual during your stay in Kazakhstan, check out the Ykhlas Museum of Folk Musical Instruments in Almaty. More than 1,000 instruments of different types from different time periods are collected here. You'll see traditional and unusual instruments such as the dombra, shankobyz and kobyz, and learn about Kazakhstan's musical heritage.

Music and instruments were of great importance in Kazakh life, especially in the context of folk music, rituals, special festivals, and in everyday life. If your ‘inner musician’ is dying to break out, you can find instruments available in shops around town. They range from inexpensive tourist souvenirs to exquisite musical instruments.
The Ykhlas Museum of Musical Instruments is located in the 28 Panfilov Guardsmen's Park and, like the Ascension Cathedral, is built entirely of wood.

Almaty TV tower, Mount Kok-Tobe

17. Almaty television tower.
The Almaty TV tower, 371.5 meters high, is located on Mount Kok-Tobe. This telecommunications tower as well as an observation deck is the main reason why travelers visit it. The site offers a 360-degree view of the city, as well as the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains.

In addition to its impressive views, the Almaty Tower at one time became an iconic symbol of Almaty and Kazakhstan as a whole and serves as a symbol of the country’s modernization and progress.

The building of the Kazakh Academic Drama Theater named after M. Auezov, Almaty

18. Museum of the Kazakh Academic Drama Theatre.
This popular destination for literature and art lovers is dedicated to the life, work and legacy of legendary playwright and writer Mukhtar Auezov. The museum builds visitors' picture of both his life and achievements, as well as the broad history of Kazakh theatre, and includes a collection of everyday objects that includes his personal belongings, costumes, props and more.

It is also home to the Kazakh National Drama Theatre, which hosts performances and lectures dedicated to preserving the history of Auezov and Kazakh theatre.
Opening hours and a schedule of events can be found on the official website.

Kok-Zhailau plateau, Ile-Alatau National Park, photo by Deonisy Mit

19. Kok-Zhailau plateau.
Fans of active recreation should pay attention to the Kok-Zhailau plateau. Located about 15 kilometres from Almaty, between the Small and Big Almaty gorges, the plateau is at an altitude of 2,000 metres.
The landscape of the plateau is represented by hills, magnificent meadows, beautiful mountains, and rich biodiversity.

The Kok-Zhailau Valley, located in the Ile-Alatau National Park, is great for hiking and is an easy day trip or weekend getaway from Almaty. Dress for the season and keep an eye on the weather forecast - big temperature swings are possible.

Canyon "Valley of Castles", Charyn Canyon, Almaty region

20. Charyn Canyon.
The canyons are 200 kilometres or a 3-hour drive from Almaty, but the Charyn Canyon (often called the ‘Grand Canyon of Central Asia’) and the surrounding Charyn National Park is one of Kazakhstan's key attractions.

The history of the Canyon dates back millions of years and stretches for 154 kilometres along the Charyn River. Over several million years, the Charyn River gradually cut through sedimentary rock and red sandstone, creating the incredible ravines and cliffs you can see today. The subsequent process of erosion led to the natural creation of rock formations that take the form of shapes and structures.

One of the most popular canyons is ‘Castle Valley’ with rock formations that look very much like medieval fortresses. Hiking inside the canyon, the landscape views are a great opportunity for nature photo shoots.
The best way to explore the canyon is on foot - there are various hiking trails varying in difficulty and length. You can make a one-day trip from Almaty - it is a busy one, but for fullness of impressions we recommend to stay overnight. On the territory of the National Park there are a visitor centre, camping, glamping, cafes.
To visit the canyon ‘Valley of Castles’ and other canyons of the river Charyn you can go to the page of the most intense tour on canyons - during the day tourists visit 6 picturesque locations in the canyons.

School of falconry art "Kusbegi" (Sunkar, Almaty)

21. Sunkar Falconry Farm.
The Sunkar Falcon Farm is a raptor sanctuary centre located near the Greater Almaty Gorge, about 15 kilometres from Almaty city centre. ‘Sunkar’ means “falcon” in Russian. Other birds of prey living here include several species of owls, golden eagles, buzzards, vultures and others. The centre functions as a nature reserve and a breeding centre for red-listed birds (with a high risk of global extinction). Thanks to the efforts of the Sunkar Nursery, over 850 falcons have been bred and released into the wild, and by visiting the centre you will contribute to their conservation efforts.

As well as learning about these birds of prey, a short presentation will give you the opportunity to watch them interact with experienced trainers. You will see different types of falconry, and ornithologist Paul will make the demonstration both educational and entertaining.

The building of the Kazakh-British Technical University (KBTU) on Astana Square, Almaty

22. Astana Square.
The second largest square in Almaty, second only to Republic Square, is located in the centre of Almaty. The square has changed its name several times: from the 1920s it was known as ‘Red Square’, and after ‘Brezhnev Square’ was built in 1980, it was called ‘Old Square’. Astana Square, named after the capital of Kazakhstan, has historical significance, especially during the Soviet era. Opposite the Kazakh-British Technical University, part of Astana Square was recently reconstructed, with construction completed in 2017.

Today, the square houses several monuments and statues (they replaced the former monument to Vladimir Lenin), and hosts ceremonies and festive concerts.

Main building of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Almaty

23. Al-Farabi Kazakh National University.
Named in honour of the medieval philosopher and scientist Al-Farabi, the university is one of the largest in the country. The university, popularly called ‘KazSU’, has more than 20,000 students studying at the undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral levels.
The university is known for its faculties of history, economics, law, philosophy, physics, chemistry and journalism.
The official website is here.

Arbat, Zhibek Zholy street, Almaty

24. Arbat.
Arbat is a pedestrian zone located on Zhibek Zholy Street in the centre of Almaty. It is full of shops and boutiques, from local bazaars to expensive luxury shops. If you're looking for a souvenir or gift that goes beyond tourist trivia, you can surely find something here.

The street is lined with fountains and sculptures, a charming backdrop for the artists, musicians and street performers who perform here.

Presentation of the club "Sarbaz", village "Huns", Talgar, Almaty region

25. Ethnoauyl ‘Huns’.
The ethno-village ‘Huns’ is a glimpse into the times of nomadism of the Kazakh people. The village is located 48 kilometres from the centre of Almaty. You will spend a few hours in the village as part of a day trip programme, for a deep dive you can rent a yurt for overnight stay. The yurts of Auyla ‘Huns’ belong to the class of ‘glamping’ rather than the usual camping, are upscale and have the necessary infrastructure for overnight stays.

The visit programme begins with a demonstration of making ‘baursak’, traditional fried bread for a feast.
Other activities of the programme in the village include musical performance, traditional spinning and weaving, other arts and crafts, archery. The programme in the ethno village ends with a horse-riding demonstration, which includes a warrior battle, acrobatic stunts and the centuries-old ritual of a young dzhigit courting a girl.

Inside the Oy-Karagay resort, Almaty region

26. Mountain resort ‘Oy-Karagai’ (‘Forest Tale’).
The resort is located 40 kilometres from the city of Almaty. The resort offers a wide range of entertainment for adults and children: hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, rope park, climbing wall, rope crossing, picnics, ziplines. Winter sports prevail, including skiing and sledging.

Inside the Oy-Karagay resort, Almaty region

In addition to the spa hotel and cottages, the highlight of the resort is the stay of visitors in ‘tree houses’. The cottages are eco-style wooden mini-cottages that blend in harmoniously with the surrounding foliage. The rooms in the pine tree houses are quiet and comfortable, with everything you need for your stay (including Wi-Fi). Different lodge configurations are available, accommodating up to four guests. The air of coniferous trees has powerful healing properties, thanks to the active release of phytoncides, which sanitise the air and create a unique microclimate.
The tree houses are located on the edge of the hill, among the trees. To get to the lodges you need to make many steps on the stairs.
The official website of the resort is here.

Shore of Lake Kaiyndy, Kolsai National Park, Almaty region

27. Lake Kaindy.
If you are ready to travel a little further from Almaty, a visit to one of the glacial lakes would be a great choice for a two-day trip. Lake Kayindy is 1,800 metres above sea level and was formed by an earthquake in 1911. The landslide created a natural dam, which in turn created the lake. The icy waters of Lake Kayyindy contain a sunken forest of Tien Shan spruce trees standing intricately in the water column.
A visit to Kayyindy Lake is available as part of one-day and two-day trips to the Kolsai Lakes National Park.

Shore of Lake Kolsai Lower, national park "Kolsay Lakes", Almaty region

28. Kolsay Lakes.
A system of three mountain lakes also formed as a result of an earthquake. There are hiking trails between the three Kolsay lakes - Upper, Middle and Lower Kolsai. The trail becomes more difficult as you get farther away from Kolsai Lower Lake, and the total hiking time to Kolsai Middle Lake is about three hours (8 kilometres one way, 500 metres of elevation gain).

The trail between the Middle and Upper Kolsay Lakes is the most difficult, with steep ascents and turns that continue uphill, and is intended for experienced hikers. If you decide to hike to Upper Kolsai, you should bring your passport, the border of Kazakhstan with the Kyrgyz Republic is located a few kilometres from the lake Kolsai Upper.
Tourists who do not have a lot of time will be suitable for a one-day express tour with a visit to Kolsai Lower and Kaindy lakes.
For guests who want to enjoy the scenery of alpine lakes and canyons, we recommend considering a two-day trip to Kolsai Lakes.

Harvest Festival at the vineyards of Arba Wine, Almaty region

29. Arba Wine Winery.
Kazakh wine, although less known on the international scene, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Winemaking traditions in Kazakhstan date back to the era of the ancient Silk Road, when grapes were grown along trade routes.
Local grape varieties such as Rkatsiteli, Saperavi and Bayanshira are highly prized for their resilience and ability to grow in harsh continental climates.
We recommend visiting Arba Wine Vineyards for a short tour and wine tasting, followed by lunch in the vineyards. Arba Wine is located in a picturesque location, surrounded by the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. The official website of the winery is here.

We hope that the above-described attractions of the city of Almaty will be of interest to you.

Tour operator GreenX provides a service of tourist trips and excursions in Almaty and the Almaty region; a description of the tours can be found on the page.

Reviews from our guests about the work of GreenX are available on the international travel portal TripAdvisor, on the Google maps.

We wish you a pleasant and unforgettable time in Almaty!

GreenX Company