In this Almaty travel guide, I’ll walk you through the best things to do in Almaty, give you practical tips for your visit, and tell you how to use the city as a springboard for nearby adventures.
Almaty is Kazakhstan’s largest city and cultural hub, framed by the snow-capped peaks of the Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains.
For travellers, it’s also the perfect base to explore southern Kazakhstan, with natural wonders like Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, and Big Almaty Lake within reach.
Also read: Kazakhstan Itinerary | 9 Days Of Cities, Canyons & Culture
A Short History of Almaty
Almaty’s story begins on the Silk Road, where a settlement called Almatu grew among apple orchards in the 10th century.
The area remained small until the Russian Empire established the military outpost of Verny here in 1854. By the late 19th century, Verny had grown into a bustling trade centre.
Under Soviet rule, the city expanded rapidly, becoming Kazakhstan’s political, industrial, and cultural hub. Renamed Almaty in 1921, it served as the capital of the Kazakh SSR and then independent Kazakhstan until 1997, when the government relocated to Astana.
Today, Almaty is no longer the capital but remains the country’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan city, home to financial institutions, universities, and a thriving cultural scene.
How Much Time Do You Need in Almaty?
Plan at least two full days to explore Almaty’s highlights, including its parks, museums, markets, and coffee culture. With three or four days, you can add a trip into the nearby mountains, such as a hike to Big Almaty Lake or a ride up to Shymbulak Ski Resort.
If you have longer, Almaty is also the gateway to some of Kazakhstan’s most dramatic landscapes.
Multi-day tours from the city reach Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, Kaindy Lake and Altyn Emel National Park, all of which are among the country’s most spectacular natural sights.
I highly recommend this 2-day tour to Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes and Kaindy Lake that I did with Kazakhstan Guided Tours. Really one of the best tours I ever did!
Where to Stay in Almaty
I stayed at the Ibis Almaty Jetisu, a comfortable mid-range hotel in a central location. The rooms were modern, the staff helpful, and it made a great base for exploring the city.
Some other great options to stay in Almaty:
- Rixos Almaty | One of the city’s most luxurious hotels, with elegant rooms, spa facilities, and fine dining.
- The Ritz-Carlton Almaty | High above the city in the Esentai Tower, offering panoramic mountain views and five-star service.
- Hotel Kazakhstan | A Soviet-era landmark that’s become an icon of the city. Staying here is as much about the experience as the accommodation itself.
Also read: Where To Stay In Kazakhstan | My Favourite Hotels
10 Fun Things to Do in Almaty
Start Your Day at Ascension Cathedral and Panfilov Park
Begin your exploration in Panfilov Park, one of Almaty’s most popular green spaces.
At its centre stands the colourful Ascension Cathedral, a Russian Orthodox church built entirely of wood in 1907 without the use of nails. Inside, the frescoes and icons are as striking as the exterior.
The cathedral remains an active place of worship and a symbol of the Russian Orthodox community in Kazakhstan. Christianity is a minority religion here, but it’s respected, and the cathedral has become both a spiritual centre and a cultural landmark.
Nearby is the 28 Panfilov Guardsmen Memorial, honouring soldiers from Kazakhstan who fought in World War II.
Shop for Spices and Tea at the Green Bazaar
A short walk from Panfilov Park is the Green Bazaar, Almaty’s bustling central market. It’s a feast for the senses: vendors sell everything from fragrant teas and dried fruits to local cheeses and horse meat.
The spice stalls are particularly colourful, and the fruit section overflows with apples. Fitting since alma is the Kazakh word for apple, and the city is thought to be the birthplace of the fruit.
Head upstairs where you’ll find small restaurants and cafés overlooking the market halls. It’s the perfect spot to grab a cheap meal, a coffee or tea while watching the bustle below.
Visit the Almaty Central Mosque
One of the largest mosques in Kazakhstan, the Almaty Central Mosque is a striking white building crowned with a golden dome. It’s especially lively during Friday prayers, but visitors are welcome outside of those times.
When I visited, it was scorching outside and I arrived in shorts. To my surprise, I was still invited to come inside and take a closer look.
Almaty feels less conservative than you might expect, at least for men. Though you should always be respectful, dress modestly when possible, and double-check if your attire is acceptable before entering.
Also read: 10 Spectacular Things To See & Do In Kazakhstan
Take the Metro for a Glimpse of Soviet Design
Almaty has just one metro line, which I thought is very surprising given the size of the city. Traffic congestion is a real issue here as large parts of the city are clogged with cars throughout the day. So the lack of more metro lines is very noticeable.
Still, the metro is worth riding at least once. Opened in 2011, the stations are decorated with mosaics and marble in classic Soviet style. You’ll need to buy a small token in cash to get through the turnstiles, which feels quirky compared to modern contactless systems.
See Soviet Landmarks: Auezov Theater and the State Circus
For a taste of Almaty’s Soviet heritage, ride the metro from Raiymbek Batyr station (close to Almaty Central Mosque) to Auezov Theater, named after the Kazakh writer Mukhtar Auezov.
Unfortunately, the theater is currently undergoing long-term reconstruction and is surrounded by a large wall, so you can’t see much up close. You’ll get a better view from across the street, near the Kazakh State Circus.
The circus itself is a circular building topped with a dome, a typical Soviet design that’s worth a look even if you don’t go inside. Soviet circuses played an important role during Soviet times as it was seen as a form of entertainment that could be enjoyed by everyone.
Explore the Abilkhan Kasteev State Art Museum
The Abilkhan Kasteev State Art Museum is Almaty’s best art museum, home to an impressive collection of Kazakh, Russian, and international works.
The galleries range from depictions of nomadic steppe life to bold Soviet-era propaganda pieces and contemporary Central Asian art. It’s a must for anyone interested in the region’s culture and creativity.
Learn Kazakhstan’s Story at the Central State Museum
The Central State Museum is one of the largest in Kazakhstan, covering everything from prehistoric artefacts to modern independence. While the museum is spacious and well organised, I found the displays a little dull in presentation.
The museum is interesting enough to spend an hour, but if you’re looking for something more engaging, the Steppe Museum in Turkistan does a better job of bringing Kazakh daily life to light.
Also read: Complete Guide To Turkistan | Kazakhstan’s Spiritual Capital
Ride the Funicular Up to Kok Tobe Hill
For the best city views, take the funicular up to Kok Tobe Hill, which overlooks Almaty and the snow-capped mountains beyond.
At the top, you’ll find a small amusement park, souvenir shops, and even a statue of The Beatles. It’s a busy spot with loud music and families, but if you walk a bit further you’ll find quieter corners.
I recommend sitting down at a restaurant for a drink or snack. I ordered fries and a beer and enjoyed the sunset as the city lights flickered on.
Relax at the Arasan Baths
If you’re in need of downtime, head to the Arasan Baths, a grand Soviet-era bathhouse built in the 1980s.
Inside are marble steam rooms, domed halls, and pools where locals come to unwind. It’s a quintessential Almaty experience and a great way to recharge after a long day of sightseeing.
Discover Almaty’s Coffee Culture
Almaty has a thriving coffee scene, and exploring its cafés is part of the experience. Independent spots are scattered across the city, ranging from minimalist roasteries to hip modern cafés.
I especially enjoyed chatting with the barista at Spectre Coffee, where I ended up staying for over an hour. Coffee culture here feels dynamic and welcoming, and if you’re a caffeine fan, it’s well worth making time for.
Also read: Best Coffee In Almaty | 9 Specialty Coffee Shops & Cafés To Try
More Things to Do in Almaty on Day Trips
One of Almaty’s biggest advantages is its location. The mountains and steppe begin just outside the city, making it a perfect base for nature trips. From alpine lakes to desert canyons, these are the best day trips and short excursions you can do from Almaty.
Hike or Drive to Big Almaty Lake
Just 25 km from the city centre, Big Almaty Lake is the easiest nature escape from Almaty. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the turquoise lake is a stunning sight in any season.
You can drive up by taxi or join a tour, but hiking is also possible for the more active. Keep in mind that swimming is not allowed, as the lake supplies the city’s drinking water, but the views alone make it worth the trip.
Ride the Cable Car to Shymbulak Ski Resort and Medeu Skating Rink
Closer to the city, you’ll find Medeu, one of the highest-altitude skating rinks in the world, and above it the Shymbulak Ski Resort.
Even in summer, the cable car ride up offers incredible views over Almaty and the mountains. In winter, Shymbulak is a popular ski destination. But year-round it’s a great place to escape into the mountains for fresh air and scenery.
See the Singing Dune in Altyn Emel National Park
For something truly different, head to Altyn Emel National Park, about 3–4 hours northeast of Almaty. Its most famous feature is the Singing Dune, a massive sand dune that “sings” or hums when the wind blows across it.
The park also has colourful rock formations and steppe landscapes that feel worlds away from the city. It’s a very long day trip, but the scenery is unforgettable.
Explore Charyn Canyon
Often compared to a smaller version of the Grand Canyon, Charyn Canyon stretches for 90 km, with cliffs carved into dramatic shapes by the Charyn River.
The most popular part is the Valley of Castles, where you can descend wooden stairs into the canyon and walk along the valley floor.
Many tours from Almaty combine Charyn with other natural highlights, making it a full-day adventure. Though if you combine Charyn Canyon with Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy I highly recommend to spread it out over 2 days.
Also read: Charyn Canyon Tour From Almaty With Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes
Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy
Further into the mountains lie the Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy, two of Kazakhstan’s most beautiful alpine lakes.
Kolsai’s first lake is easily accessible and surrounded by pine forests, while Lake Kaindy is famous for the submerged spruce trees rising from its turquoise water.
Visiting both usually requires an overnight trip, often with a stay in Saty village, but they can be done in a very long day tour from Almaty.
Multi-Day Tours from Almaty
If you have more time, consider joining a multi-day tour that combines several of these natural highlights.
Many tours include Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, and Lake Kaindy in one itinerary, often with an overnight stay in Saty village.
This is exactly what I did as well as it’s one of the best ways to experience the diversity of Kazakhstan’s landscapes. I’ll cover the tour I did in more detail in my upcoming guide. But of course you can book it right here.
Map of Almaty Highlights
To help plan your visit, I’ve marked all the main sights, cafés, and restaurants on the map below. Use it to get a sense of the city’s layout and to see how easy it is to combine different attractions during your stay.
Where to Eat and Drink in Almaty
Almaty has one of the most vibrant food and café scenes in Central Asia, with options ranging from traditional Kazakh fare to trendy international spots. Here are some places worth checking out:
- Navat | Navat is a great place to try local dishes such as lagman, manti, and beshbarmak. The décor nods to Kazakh traditions, and the portions are generous.
- Sandyq | Stylish and modern, Sandyq gives Kazakh cuisine a contemporary twist. Expect beautiful interiors, attentive service, and plates that look as good as they taste.
- Nuala | One of Almaty’s top restaurants for upscale dining, Nuala blends Kazakh flavours with European influences. A good choice if you’re looking for something refined.
- Ketchup Dostyk | A casual place with a lively atmosphere, serving burgers, steaks, and hearty comfort food. It’s popular with locals and perfect for a relaxed evening.
- Chicken Star | Korean-inspired dishes with a fun, youthful vibe. Don’t miss their fried chicken, and if you’re thirsty, they also serve locally brewed beer.
- Spectre Coffee | My personal favourite coffee spot in Almaty. The baristas are passionate about their craft, and I ended up chatting with one of them for over an hour. A must for coffee lovers.
- Fika | Inspired by Scandinavian café culture, Fika is perfect for coffee, pastries, and slow afternoons. A cosy space that feels both local and international.
Almaty’s café culture is booming, and spending time in its coffee shops is just as much a part of the city experience as visiting museums or markets.
I’ve highlighted a couple of favourites here, but there are plenty more to discover. Take a look at my Almaty Coffee Guide if you think discovering coffee culture is as much fun as city sightseeing.
How to Get to and Around Almaty
Almaty is the point of entry into Kazakhstan for many travellers. The city is well connected by air, but also by train and road. Once in Almaty walk around and occasionally take an e-scooter for longer distance.
How to Get to Almaty
By Air
Almaty International Airport (ALA) is Kazakhstan’s busiest, with regular flights to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, as well as domestic connections across the country. It’s the most convenient entry point if you’re starting your trip in southern Kazakhstan.
From the airport, a Yandex Go taxi is the easiest way into the city centre, taking about 30–40 minutes depending on traffic.
By Train
Almaty is connected to most major cities in Kazakhstan by rail. Trains from Astana take around 12 hours, while from Shymkent it’s about 11 hours. Journeys are long but comfortable, and trains are a good option if you want to experience Kazakhstan’s vast landscapes.
By Road
Long-distance buses and shared taxis also run between Almaty and other cities, though they’re slower and less comfortable than flying or taking the train. For nearby day trips, most travellers book an organised tour or hire a driver.
Getting Around Almaty
Almaty is a large, sprawling city, but has a convenient mix of options to get around.
- Walking | Central Almaty is leafy and pleasant to explore on foot, especially around Panfilov Park, Zhibek Zholy pedestrian street, and the café-lined boulevards. Some of the best moments in the city come from simply wandering.
- Yandex Go taxis | Cheap, reliable, and the easiest way to get between attractions. Expect heavy traffic during the day, so allow extra time.
- Metro | Beautifully decorated stations in classic Soviet style, but with just one line, the system isn’t very practical. Worth riding once for the experience.
- E-scooters | Available through the Yandex Go app. I used them several times to skip traffic and they were a fun, efficient way to cover a nice bit of distance.
- Public buses | Extensive network but hard to navigate without Russian or Kazakh. Most visitors stick to taxis or tours.
Final Tips for Visiting Almaty
Almaty is easy to explore, but a few practical tips will make your visit even smoother. Keep these in mind when planning your stay:
- Cash & cards | ATMs are easy to find, but always carry some cash for markets or small cafés.
- Language | Russian is widely spoken, Kazakh less so; English is limited, but younger people often know the basics.
- Weather | Summers can be hot, winters snowy and cold. Spring and autumn are most comfortable for sightseeing.
- Cafés | Don’t skip the coffee scene. Almaty has some of the best cafés in Central Asia, perfect for recharging between sights.
- Tours | If you want to see Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, or Lake Kaindy in one trip, book this multi-day tour in advance.
- Stay connected | Get an eSIM via Saily or buy a local SIM card when you arrive. Use my referral code MARTIN84627 when using Saily for 5 USD off your first eSIM purchase.
- Travel Insurance | Always a good idea. Readers of Next Journey Ahead get 5% off Heymondo travel insurance that covers Kazakhstan.
Also read: Kazakhstan Travel Tips | What To Know Before You Go
Final Thoughts on Almaty
Almaty is a city that balances the buzz of urban life with quick access to stunning nature.
For many travellers, including me, it ends up being the most enjoyable city in Kazakhstan. The city is easy to explore, full of character, and perfectly located for day trips into the steppe and highlands.
Have you been to Almaty or are you planning a visit? Share your experiences in the comments below or reach out to me on Instagram. For more travel inspiration subscribe to my newsletter and receive the latest itineraries and travel tips in your mail.
Planning your trip to Kazakhstan? Then make sure to take a look at my complete Kazakhstan Travel Guide. And don’t miss my latest Kazakhstan articles:
- 10 Spectacular Things to See & Do in Kazakhstan
- Best Coffee in Almaty | 9 Specialty Coffee Shops & Cafés to Try
- Charyn Canyon Tour from Almaty with Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes
- Where to Stay in Kazakhstan | My Favourite Hotels
- Kazakhstan Travel Tips | What to Know Before You Go
- 12 Things to Do in Astana, Kazakhstan’s Futuristic Capital
- Complete Guide of Almaty with Things to Do and Day Trips
- Things to Do in Shymkent, Kazakhstan | Complete Travel Guide
- Complete Guide to Turkistan | Kazakhstan’s Spiritual Capital
- Kazakhstan Itinerary | 9 Days of Cities, Canyons & Culture
