Things To Do
in Astana
Astana, Kazakhstan is the country's capital and second-largest city. Known for its futuristic architecture and design, Astana boasts impressive landmarks such as the Baiterek Tower and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation. The city experiences extreme temperature variations, with scorching summers and freezing winters.
Astana has emerged as a major political, economic, and cultural center in Central Asia in recent years.
- "Salemetsiz be?" - How are you?
- "Rakhmet" - Thank you
- "Keshiriniz" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Iä" - Yes
- "Jok" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Bayterek Monument. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.
Explore the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan and learn about the country's rich history. Take a leisurely stroll through the surrounding parks.
Dine at a local restaurant serving traditional Kazakh dishes. End the day by watching the city lights illuminate the skyline.
Visit the Hazret Sultan Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Central Asia. Marvel at its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.
Head to the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation. Explore the exhibitions inside and enjoy lunch nearby.
Attend a performance at the Astana Opera House. Savor the cultural experience with dinner at a nearby café.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Astana is a rapidly developing city with modern infrastructure.
- It serves as the political and administrative center of Kazakhstan, attracting investment and talent.
- The city has unique architectural designs, including the Bayterek Tower and the Khan Shatyr.
- Astana hosts several international events and conferences, enhancing its global visibility.
- The cost of living is relatively low compared to many Western cities.
- It has a diverse population, offering a mix of cultural experiences.
- Astana experiences extreme temperatures with very cold winters and hot summers.
- The city is still developing, which can lead to issues with public services and facilities.
- Air quality can be a concern due to industrial activity and vehicle emissions.
- There may be a lack of established entertainment and leisure options compared to larger cities.
- The population is relatively small, which might limit networking opportunities.
- Limited public transport options can make commuting challenging.
Best Activities in Astana
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the 97-meter-tall observation tower for stunning views of Astana.
Experience indoor beach, shopping, and entertainment in this unique tent-like structure.
Explore the largest mosque in Kazakhstan, known for its impressive architecture and stunning interior design.
Enjoy world-class performances in opera, ballet, and classical music in this architectural masterpiece.
Visit this iconic landmark and symbol of Astana, offering panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.
Tours
Uncover the best of Astana with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Astana
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic monument and observation tower offering panoramic views of Astana
Grand mosque with a stunning architecture, providing picturesque views
Elegant opera house with a scenic surrounding area, perfect for photography
Futuristic shopping and entertainment complex with a unique design for capturing memorable photographs
Food in Astana
Astana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
One of Kazakhstan's national dishes, Beshbarmak consists of boiled meat (usually lamb or horse meat) served with wide flat noodles and often accompanied by broth and onions. To savor this authentic dish, visit the traditional Kazakh restaurants like Nomad or Adem.
Must-Try!
Qazi is a type of horse meat sausage, considered a delicacy in Kazakh cuisine. It can be found in local markets or specialty food shops such as Green Bazaar.
These steamed dumplings are typically filled with minced meat and served with a side of sour cream. For a delightful manti experience, head to Sultan Manti, a popular spot known for its authentic preparation.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Astana better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a food lover's paradise, where vendors sell a wide array of fresh produce, spices, dairy products, and local delicacies like qazi and kurt (dried sour milk). Visitors can also sample freshly prepared street food including samsa (savory meat pastries) and shashlik (grilled skewered meat).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Astana, it's customary to greet people with a handshake, especially when meeting for the first time. Addressing others with their titles and using formal language is also a sign of respect.
Showing respect towards elders is highly valued in Kazakh culture. It's important to address them using the appropriate titles and to listen attentively when they speak.
When dining with locals, it's polite to wait for the oldest or most senior person to begin eating before starting your meal. It's also customary to leave a little food on the plate to show that you have been provided with more than enough.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Astana with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Astana
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Astana, Kazakhstan is not mandatory, but is appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and for good service. A 10% tip is customary for good service, but it is not expected in all establishments.
In Astana, Kazakhstan, cash is the most commonly used form of payment, especially in smaller establishments and markets. However, credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, hotels, and restaurants. It is always advisable to carry some cash for transactions in smaller venues.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Astana.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The weather is mild and pleasant, making it a great time to visit Astana. The city comes alive with blossoming flowers and greenery, and you can enjoy various outdoor activities.
Summers are warm with long hours of daylight, allowing for outdoor events and festivals. However, it can get quite hot during this time.
The temperatures start to drop, and the city is adorned with beautiful autumn colors. It's a great time for sightseeing and experiencing cultural events.
Winter in Astana is cold, with temperatures dropping well below freezing. However, this is the time for winter sports enthusiasts to enjoy activities like ice skating, skiing, and snowboarding.
Astana at Night
Hiking in Astana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park located near the city, featuring diverse landscapes, hiking trails, and beautiful vistas.
A popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering trails for casual hiking and stunning views of the city.
A larger park further from the city, known for its mountain trails, beautiful flora, and opportunities for more adventurous hiking.
Famous for its ancient petroglyphs, this area offers hiking routes that are both culturally enriching and scenic.
Although a bit further away, it's renowned for its striking landscapes, lakes, and challenging hiking trails.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Astana through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Astana by plane.
The main international airport serving Astana, Kazakhstan, it offers flights to various destinations across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
The largest international airport in Kazakhstan, located in Almaty, is approximately 1,000 kilometers away from Astana, providing numerous international connections.
An international airport in Atyrau, approximately 1,500 kilometers from Astana, it serves as a gateway for oil and gas workers and offers regional flights.
Located about 1,400 kilometers from Astana, this airport serves international and domestic flights, particularly for travelers heading to Aktobe.
Approximately 200 kilometers from Astana, this airport primarily offers domestic flights but has some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Elderly male representatives of various ethnic groups, revered for their wisdom and role in community leadership.
The largest ethnic group in Astana, forming a significant part of the population and culture, known for their rich traditions.
The second largest ethnic group, contributing to the cultural and linguistic diversity of Astana, primarily speaking Russian.
A notable ethnic minority with historical presence, involved in various sectors of the economy.
A growing demographic group contributing to the labor force, particularly in construction and trade sectors.
An ethnic group with a rich cultural heritage, contributing to the diverse tapestry of Astana's society.
Includes groups such as Belarusian, Armenian, and many others, contributing to the multicultural environment of Astana.
The Soul of Astana
Discover the essence of Astana through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is one of the most popular sports in Astana, with a strong local following and professional teams competing in national leagues.
Football is widely played and followed in Astana, featuring professional teams and a robust youth development system.
Basketball has gained popularity in Astana, with several local teams participating in various competitions and leagues.
Wrestling is a traditional sport in Kazakhstan, including various styles like freestyle and Greco-Roman, with local events and national competitions.
Cycling is a popular recreational activity in Astana, with many cycling events and initiatives promoting fitness and outdoor activity.
Track and field sports are followed and practiced in Astana, with local events and competitions contributing to its popularity.
Volleyball is enjoyed by both men and women in Astana, with club teams and informal games held throughout the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Astana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Kazakh cuisine leans heavily towards meat-based dishes, many restaurants in Astana now offer vegetarian and vegan options. Places like Gosti and Zhety Kazyna provide a variety of meat-free dishes, salads, and soups.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find suitable options in several cafes and restaurants. Many places offer gluten-free versions of traditional dishes or have specific menu items that cater to gluten-free diets.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Astana with these cultural adventures.
