Shymkent Kazakhstan 7 Day Itinerary

Title: 7-Day Itinerary for Exploring Shymkent, Kazakhstan

Day 1 - Arrival and City Orientation

  • Accommodation: Consider staying at “Hotel Tulpar” or “Ak Orda Hotel”, both centrally located and offer comfortable stays.
  • Lunch: Try traditional Kazakh cuisine at “Shymkent Chyzmeshi” for a taste of local delicacies.
  • Afternoon - Take a leisurely stroll around the city center, visit the Central Mosque and the Monument of Independence.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at “Chinar Restaurant”, known for its variety of dishes from various regions of Kazakhstan.

Day 2 - Historical Sites and Museums

  • Morning - Visit the Aksakala Hill (White Mosque), a historical site dating back to the 19th century.
  • Lunch: Have lunch at “Tamga” restaurant, known for its delicious plov.
  • Afternoon - Explore the Regional History Museum and the Palace of Happiness (Shanyrak Ethno-Memorial Complex).
  • Dinner: Dine at “Kazakhstan Cuisine House”, offering a wide range of traditional dishes.

Day 3 - Nature and Recreation

  • Morning - Head to the Chimbulak Ski Resort (seasonal) or the Shymkent City Park for outdoor activities.
  • Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch or try “Kumis-Restaurant” for a quick bite.
  • Afternoon - Visit the Botanical Garden or take a boat ride at the Zhayyq Reservoir.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at “Galymzhan Darabekov House of Art and Culture”, featuring local arts, music, and cuisine.

Day 4 - Day Trip to Turkestan (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

  • Morning - Take a day trip to the ancient city of Turkestan. Visit the Hazret Sultan Mausoleum, Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum, and Mausoleum of Arystan Bab.
  • Lunch: Have lunch at local restaurants in Turkestan.
  • Return - Return to Shymkent in the evening.
  • Dinner: Dine at “Tutu Balyq”, offering a variety of Kazakh and international dishes.

Day 5 - Shopping and Local Markets

  • Morning - Visit the Central Market (Zhyrau Market) for fresh produce, traditional goods, and souvenirs.
  • Lunch: Try “Borboro” restaurant for a taste of Kazakh fast food.
  • Afternoon - Explore the city’s shopping centers like “Dostyk Shopping Center” or “Shymkent Plaza”.
  • Dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at “Tuyak-Khan Restaurant”, offering a wide range of traditional dishes and live music.

Day 6 - Relaxation and Preparation for Departure

  • Morning/Afternoon - Spend the day at leisure, perhaps visiting any attractions you may have missed, or simply relaxing at your hotel or a local café.
  • Lunch: Have lunch at “Dostyk Café” or “Burabay Restaurant”.
  • Evening - Pack and prepare for departure.
  • Dinner - Enjoy a final dinner at your favorite restaurant from the previous days.

Day 7 - Departure

  • Breakfast - Have a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
  • Transportation - Head to the Shymkent International Airport for your departure. If needed, consider using “Green Taxi” or “Yandex.Taxi” for reliable transportation.