Kazakhstan 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Almaty

  • Morning:

    • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Some popular choices include “Papa’s Coffee” or “Café Pausa”.
    • Visit the Panfilov Park, dedicated to the heroes of the Great Patriotic War, and see the famous Zenkov Cathedral inside.
    • Explore Central State Museum to learn about Kazakhstan’s rich history and culture.

  • Afternoon:

    • Take a cable car up to the Medeu Sports Complex to enjoy panoramic views of Almaty and the surrounding mountains.
    • Visit the Shymbulak Ski Resort (weather permitting) for a scenic chairlift ride or skiing in winter.
    • Wander around the nearby Chimbulak Village and enjoy local cuisine at one of the many cafes and restaurants.

  • Evening:

    • Head to the vibrant Green Bazaar for an authentic Kazakhstani dining experience. The bazaar offers a variety of traditional dishes, fresh produce, and souvenirs.
    • End your day with a stroll along Kabakova Street, known for its bars, clubs, and street food.

  • Things to Know:

    • Kazakhstan uses the Tenge as its official currency. US dollars and Euros are also widely accepted in major cities.
    • The main language spoken is Kazakh, but Russian is widely understood due to its historical influence. English is less commonly spoken, so it may be helpful to learn some basic phrases or have a translation app on hand.
    • Taxis are readily available and affordable, although using ride-hailing apps like “Labby” or “Gobee Taxi” can provide added convenience and security.

Day 2: Discovering Astana

  • Morning:

    • Take a morning flight from Almaty to Astana (now known as Nur-Sultan). The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
    • Visit the Bayterek Tower, an iconic monument symbolizing the Kazakhstan’s heritage and future aspirations. You can also enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.
    • Explore the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center, which houses a shopping mall, an amusement park, and a beach under a giant transparent dome.

  • Afternoon:

    • Visit the Presidential Palace and the Nur Alem Center, both architectural marvels designed by renowned British architect Norman Foster.
    • Explore the Astana Opera House and consider attending an evening performance if your schedule allows.
    • Wander around the Nur-Astana Mosque and appreciate its unique design that combines traditional Islamic architecture with modern elements.

  • Evening:

    • Dine at one of Astana’s many restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, from Kazakhstani to international options. Some popular choices include “Café Turan” or “Shymkent”.
    • Relax at one of the city’s numerous cafes or bars, such as “Duman Art Cafe” or “Bar Bukhara”, to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

  • Visa Requirements:

    • Citizens of many countries require a visa to enter Kazakhstan. You can check the requirements for your specific country on the Kazakhstan Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
    • Make sure to apply for your visa well in advance, as processing times may vary.

  • Transportation:

    • Taxis and ride-hailing apps are widely available in both Almaty and Astana. You can also use public transportation, including buses and the metro (in Astana only).