Things To Do
in Shymkent
Shymkent is a vibrant southern Kazakh city known for its bustling markets, welcoming people, and gateway feel to the region’s nature and history. It sits near the river valleys and the foothills of the Karatau mountains, offering a mix of urban life and easy access to outdoor escapes. The city blends Soviet-era architecture with traditional Kazakh hospitality, evident in its lively streets, teahouses, and colorful bazaars.
As a regional hub, Shymkent serves as a flavorful base for exploring southern Kazakhstan and its Uzbek-influenced cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the central park, where the morning sun illuminates the lush greenery and vibrant flowers. Enjoy a leisurely stroll while sipping on traditional Kazakh tea from a nearby kiosk. Engage with locals who are starting their day, offering a glimpse into the daily life of Shymkent.
After a hearty lunch at a local café, explore the historic sites around the city center, including the impressive Abay Park. Visit the Regional Museum of History to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region. Don't forget to take photographs of the stunning architecture that surrounds you.
As the sun sets, head to the bustling Al-Farabi Avenue, where the atmosphere comes alive with street performers and vendors. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a traditional Kazakh restaurant, sampling dishes like plov and beshbarmak. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk, taking in the sparkling city lights.
Begin your day with a visit to the Regional Museum, where you can delve into Shymkent's extensive history and cultural artifacts. Engage with the knowledgeable staff who can provide insights into the exhibits and local legends. Spend some time in the museum's courtyard, enjoying the peaceful ambiance before the crowds arrive.
After exploring the museum, head to the nearby Bazaar, where you can experience the vibrant market life of Shymkent. Sample local delicacies, such as freshly baked bread and sweet pastries, while browsing through colorful stalls filled with spices and textiles. Take this opportunity to interact with local vendors and learn about their crafts.
For dinner, choose a rooftop restaurant that offers stunning views of the city skyline. Savor authentic Kazakh dishes while listening to live music that often accompanies the dining experience. As night falls, take a leisurely stroll around the area to admire the illuminated cityscape.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $20-50 |
| 🚆Local transportation (one-way) | $0.25-0.60 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🏨1-night in a mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent value for money and generous hospitality
- Proximity to nature and easy day trips to national parks
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Hot summers can be very uncomfortable without shade and water
- "Сәлеметсіз бе?" - Hello (Kazakh)
- "Рақмет!" - Thank you (Kazakh)
- "Қалайсыз?" - How are you? (Kazakh)
- "Сколько стоит?" - How much does it cost? (Russian)
- "Где ближайшая остановка?" - Where is the nearest bus stop? (Russian)
Places to Visit in Shymkent
Visit one of these nice places.
Bustling streets, fountains, and classic Soviet-era architecture provide dynamic street photography opportunities.
Green spaces and reflective ponds ideal for portrait and landscape shots, especially at sunset.
Historic façades and brickwork offer architectural photography with rich textures.
Vistas of karst hills, steppe landscapes, and wildlife-rich valleys for dramatic nature photography.
Food in Shymkent
Shymkent Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional boiled meat served over flat noodles with onion sauce; a Kazakh classic found in many restaurants.
Must-Try!
Rice cooked with meat and carrots, a staple at casual eateries and markets across the city.
Uyghur-influenced noodle soup with vegetables and tender meat; widely available at cafes and casual dining spots.
Steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, often enjoyed as a quick bite at markets.
Fermented camel milk (shubat) or mare’s milk (kumis); traditional beverages offered at specialty stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A sprawling bazaar with fresh produce, meat stalls, spices, and inexpensive ready-to-eat snacks.
Vegetable stalls, herbs, nuts, and locally made sweets; great for sampling street bites and everyday staples.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; use polite language when addressing elders; direct eye contact is appreciated.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; avoid loud behavior in residential areas; remove shoes when required in some sacred spaces.
Respect prayer times and local customs; be mindful of personal space and public decorum in conservative areas.
Safety
Tipping in Shymkent
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; rounding up the bill or 5-10% in restaurants is common when service is good.
Cash in tenge is widely accepted in markets and smaller shops; credit/debit cards are common in hotels, larger restaurants, and supermarkets; mobile payments are growing in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot days, dry heat; water resistant sunscreen; light clothing; carry water; plan outdoor outings for early morning or late afternoon.
Pleasant temperatures with changing leaves; good lighting for photography; occasional rainfall.
Cold with possible snowfall; some attractions may have limited hours; dress in layers; warm footwear.
Mild temperatures and blooming flora; possible rainy days; great for outdoor hikes and markets.
Shymkent at Night
Hiking in Shymkent
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Seasonal trails through steppe habitats with chances to see wildlife and beautiful valleys.
Airports
How to reach Shymkent by plane.
Primary airport serving the city; domestic and some international routes; located about 10-20 km from the city center depending on route.
Major hub in the region with broad international and domestic connections; 1.5–2.5 hours by car from Shymkent; convenient for longer international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in the city and region.
A sizable minority with a strong cultural presence, influencing cuisine and markets.
A historical minority with widespread language use and participation in city life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local teams and community games.
Traditional and modern combat sports widely practiced and watched at local events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shymkent.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Meat-free options are available in many locales; look for vegetable stews, lentil soups, salads, and dumplings without meat; inform staff about dietary restrictions in Russian or Kazakh.