Almaty Kazakhstan 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Almaty

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Sentyabr, a popular local café known for its delicious pastries and coffee.
  • Visit the Astana Square, the central square of Almaty, to see the iconic Monument of Independence and the Palace of Independence.
  • Take a leisurely stroll in Panfilov Park and pay tribute to the 28 Panfilov’s Guardsmen at their memorial.

Afternoon:

  • Head to Kok-Tobe, Almaty’s famous mountain, by cable car (about 6 USD per person). Enjoy the stunning views, visit the amusement park, and take a souvenir photo with the Golden Man statute.
  • Explore the Green Bazaar for an authentic Kazakhstan market experience. Don’t forget to haggle!

Evening:

  • Have dinner at Shymbulak Restaurant, located in the Medeu Skating Rink complex, offering stunning views and traditional Kazakh dishes.
  • End your day with a visit to the Almaty Night Cafe (Almaty Night Cafe), a unique venue that combines a nightclub, restaurant, and art gallery.

Overnight:

  • Stay at the Rixos Almaty Hotel, offering luxury accommodation, a spa, and multiple dining options.

Day 2: Nature and Culture in Almaty

Morning:

  • Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel or try local dishes at Kazakhstan Chalybash, a popular restaurant for Kazakh cuisine.
  • Visit the Kazakh State Museum of Folk Musical Instruments, to learn about traditional Kazakh music and instruments.

Afternoon:

  • Head to the Medeu Skating Rink (about 1.50 USD per person), the highest skating rink in the world, for a scenic view or some ice skating if it’s winter.
  • Explore the Kazakh Aymak Museum of Folk Arts, showcasing traditional Kazakh arts and crafts.

Evening:

  • Have dinner at Masqat, a restaurant known for its Uzbek cuisine, or try the international dishes offered at The Place.
  • Take a leisurely walk along Dostyk Avenue, Almaty’s main pedestrian street, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Things to Know:

  • The official language is Kazakh, but Russian is widely spoken. English is less common.
  • Taxis are abundant, but it’s recommended to use apps like Gogek or Labi.
  • The local currency is the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT). Credit cards are accepted in most tourist areas, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites or conservative areas.