2025 Astana Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

[6 Days and 5 Nights Deep Tour in Kazakhstan] Unlock the Secrets of Central Asia! A Visual Feast from Snow Mountains to Deserts Hey everyone! I just got back from Kazakhstan, and this visa-free treasure of a country has truly amazed me! 🏔️ From the Alps-like snow mountains to the Mars-like red deserts, and prices so low they're touching (a cup of coffee is only 8 RMB!), today I'm offering you this freshly baked guide with both hands, to take you around this mysterious Central Asian country~ ✈️ [Transportation Guide] ▪️ Airplane: Direct flights from Beijing/Urumqi to Almaty (3.5 hrs) ▪️ Domestic Transportation: Recommended Yandex taxi (cheaper than taxis) ▪️ Intercity Transportation: High-speed rail/airplane are both convenient (Astana-Almaty high-speed rail 5 hrs) ▪️ Must-have APP: Yandex Maps + Translate 🏔️ [DAY1: First Impression of Almaty] 🕘 9:00 Ascension Cathedral The second tallest wooden church in the world! The candy-colored exterior is super dreamy, and the murals inside are breathtaking~ The morning light is best for taking pictures 🕛 12:00 Green Bazaar Super local market! Must-eat in the food area on the second floor: ▪️ Shashlik (charcoal grilled lamb skewers) ▪️ Baursak (Kazakh fried dough) 🕒 15:00 Kok-Tobe Hill Take the cable car up the mountain to overlook the whole city! The rainbow chair and Beatles sculpture on the top of the mountain are popular spots for taking photos, and it's so beautiful at sunset that you'll cry 🍖 Dinner Recommendations: ▪️ Navat (traditional Kazakh restaurant, the horse sausage platter is amazing) ▪️ Auyl (tent restaurant to experience nomadic culture) 🏜️ [DAY2: Shymbulak Ski Resort] 🕗 8:00 Medeu Ice Rink The highest ice rink in the world! You can play even in summer, and the snow mountain in the background is super stunning 🕐 13:00 Shymbulak Ski Resort The most luxurious ski resort in Central Asia! In summer, you can take the cable car to see the snow mountain, and you must try the plov in the restaurant on the top of the mountain 🌃 19:00 Arbat Pedestrian Street Almaty's "Champs Elysées"! There are street performances at night, remember to bargain when buying souvenirs (recommended Kazakh felt hats) 🔥 [DAY3: Kapchagay Canyon] 🕘 9:00 Charyn Canyon Mini version of the Grand Canyon! The red canyon is super photogenic, remember to wear non-slip shoes to walk the Moon Valley trail 🕑 14:00 Kolsai Lakes The "Pearl of the Tian Shan Mountains" lives up to its name! The three alpine lakes are like sapphires, and the lakeside is full of wildflowers in July-August 🍵 Dinner Recommendations: ▪️ Gakku (horse meat specialty restaurant) ▪️ Coffeedelia (popular industrial style coffee shop) 🚞 [DAY4: Modern Journey of Astana] 🕗 8:00 Khan Shatyr The largest tent building in the world! Inside is a shopping center, and the top floor has an indoor roller coaster and artificial beach 🕛 12:00 Hazrat Sultan Mosque The most beautiful mosque in Central Asia! The blue and gold dome shines in the sun, girls should wear robes to enter 🕠 17:00 Bayterek Tower The 91-meter-high "Christmas tree" building, you can see the panoramic view of the city when you climb to the top, and the light show at night is super stunning 🍴 Dinner Recommendations: ▪️ Astana Grill (high-end steakhouse) ▪️ Line Brew (craft beer + German sausage) 🏕️ [DAY5: Burabay National Park] 🕘 9:00 Lake Burabay "Kazakh Switzerland"! You can ride horses around the lake, and the wooden houses by the lake are super fairytale-like for taking pictures 🕑 14:00 Mount Okzhetpes It's super exciting to take the cable car to the top! The "Lonely Piano" on the top of the mountain is a popular spot for taking photos on Instagram 🌌 [DAY6: Altyn-Emel National Park] 🕗 8:00 Red Mountains It's like landing on Mars! It's beautiful to wear a white or black dress for taking pictures, it is recommended to rent an off-road vehicle for in-depth exploration 🕛 12:00 Singing Dune Mysterious sand dunes that can "sing"! You can hear a roar when you slide down from a high place, it's super magical 🔥 [Must-Play List TOP5] 1️⃣ Charyn Canyon (red canyon blockbuster) 2️⃣ Kolsai Lakes (sapphires of the Tianshan Mountains) 3️⃣ Khan Shatyr (futuristic architectural miracle) 4️⃣ Lake Burabay (Little Switzerland of Central Asia) 5️⃣ Red Mountains (Martian surface experience) 💡 [Precautions] ▪️ Visa-free for 30 days, but pay attention to the passport validity period ⌚️ ▪️ The temperature difference between day and night is large in September, so bring a coat 🧥 ▪️ It is recommended to exchange currency in the city (the exchange rate at the airport is poor) 💰 ▪️ Prepare some small change (tipping culture) 💰 ▪️ Respect local religious customs ⛪️ Sitting by Kolsai Lake watching the reflection of the snow mountain, I suddenly understood why the Kazakhs say this is "God's back garden". Here, there is both the boldness of the nomadic people and the avant-garde sense of the future. You can encounter unexpected things every time you turn a corner!

Astana: Ambitions of a Young Country✨️ On Christmas Eve 1991, Moscow became the focus of the world: the red Soviet Union, which once made the world tremble, announced its disintegration on this night; the former Soviet republics, who were like brothers, now had to rebuild their borders.💡🤗 In Almaty, 3,000 km away from Moscow, the leader of the newly born country of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev, was ready to make a big splash in this new country.👣 In 1997, Nazarbayev signed a presidential decree to move the capital from Almaty in the south to Astana, a new city on the northern steppe with a higher proportion of Russians.❗️Compared to the strong Soviet style of Almaty, Astana uses a lot of postmodern architecture, which is refreshing and shows the determination of this emerging country to embrace the world.🍁

Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, is a dazzling city that blends ancient history with modern style, attracting the world's attention with its unique charm👀. The city was originally named Akmola and was not officially established as the new capital of Kazakhstan until 1997. It was then renamed Astana, which means "capital". In recent years, it has been renamed several times and finally returned to its original name in 2022, witnessing the historical changes since Kazakhstan's independence🏛️. Astana is located in the north-central part of Kazakhstan, with the Ishim River running through the city, adding a touch of agility and vitality to the city🌊. The city's modern construction is eye-catching, with high-rise buildings rising from the ground and wide roads crisscrossing, showing the prosperity and vitality of Kazakhstan as an important country in Central Asia🌆. As the political, economic, and cultural center of Kazakhstan, Astana has many important government agencies, corporate headquarters, and cultural facilities. It is not only the center of national political decision-making, but also the engine of economic development, attracting a large amount of domestic and foreign investment, and promoting the rapid development of the city💰. Astana's cultural heritage is also profound. The city is full of museums, theaters, and art galleries, providing citizens and tourists with a rich cultural experience🎨. Among them, the Bayterek Observation Tower, as a landmark building in the city, towers into the clouds. It is not only an excellent place to overlook the city, but also a symbol of Kazakhstan's independent spirit🗼. In addition, Astana's natural scenery should not be overlooked. The city is surrounded by vast grasslands and magnificent snow-capped mountains, with distinct seasons and different scenery. Whether it is the greenery of summer or the silver-wrapped winter, it is fascinating🏞️. Astana's food culture is also rich and colorful. It combines Central Asian traditional flavors with modern innovations. Whether it is authentic Kazakh food or Western food, Chinese food, and other cuisines, you can find it in this city🍴. In local restaurants or markets, you can taste a variety of delicious dishes and feel the enthusiasm and hospitality of the Kazakh people. Astana is a city full of charm and vitality. It attracts the world's attention with its unique history, modern construction, rich culture, and beautiful natural scenery. Whether it is a business trip or a sightseeing tour, it will bring you unforgettable memories🌈.

The Astana Grand Mosque, located in the capital of Kazakhstan, is the largest mosque in Central Asia and one of the top ten largest mosques in the world. Completed in 2022, the mosque covers nearly 70,000 square meters and can accommodate over 200,000 worshippers. The main dome of the mosque stands over 80 meters high with a diameter of more than 60 meters, surrounded by four 130-meter-high minarets symbolizing the Five Pillars of Islam. Additionally, what excites me the most is the unique architectural design of the Astana Grand Mosque, which blends traditional and modern elements, making it a significant landmark in the region. Here are some tips for visiting the mosque🔔 👔: Visitors should dress conservatively, with both men and women covering their shoulders and knees. Women should wear a headscarf, and the mosque provides shawls. Shoes must be removed before entering the mosque. 🕘: The mosque is closed to non-Muslim visitors during prayer times, so it is best to check the specific opening hours before your visit. Generally, non-prayer times are more suitable for visits. 📸: Photography inside is usually allowed, but avoid taking pictures of people in prayer. 🚌: The mosque is located in the city center of Astana, with convenient transportation options. You can choose to take a taxi or public transportation. There is also parking available for those driving.

"French Quarter" is the first residential complex of the "Urban Romance" series from the "Basis-A" company, stylized as the classical urban architecture of European countries. The residential complex is located in the Almaty district of Nur-Sultan, on the border of the park area at the intersection of Panfilov and Kaldayakov streets. The residential complex is located in a prestigious developing area. Nearby is a great place for recreation and walks - the Presidential Park, the embankment of the Yesil River. The residential complex has a large selection of restaurants and cafes. Walking distance to Haileybury Astana school. A 10-minute walk from the National Museum, the Palace of Peace and Accord (Pyramid), the Palace of Independence, the Kazakh National University of Arts, the mosque "Khazret Sultan", a kindergarten and a school-lyceum "Nur Orda".#nursultan #kazakhstan

My hometown Astana (Nur-Sultan) is well known with its great Monument Baiterek. «Baiterek» means a young, strong, special meaning of a tree, it symbolizes a state that has preserved its historical beginning, which has a strong support and aspiration for future prosperity. We have a park around Baiterek called Nurly Zhol Boulevard. Moreover, if you are interested of what inside the Baiterek you can enter it and even take the elevator to the highest floor of the monument. Having been in Astana and not looking at the city from the view of Baiterek is simply unthinkable. A ticket costs an average of 2000 tenge it is 4,25$. #staycation #nursultan #kazakhstan #astana

A little-known Central Asian tourist attraction, Kazakhstan The National Museum of Nur-Sultan is divided into various exhibition halls. 1. A history hall that follows the history of Kazakhstan 2. Special exhibitions that can be viewed for an additional fee 3. A special exhibition of modern art There are many things to see, and you can see various exhibits that remind you of nomadic people. However, you need an additional permit to take pictures. If you take pictures without a permit, you can be fined, so be careful! #Exhibition #Kazakhstan #Nur-Sultan #SpecialExhibition

The National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan is considered not only the largest museum institution in the country, but it has no analogues in all of Central Asia. It is also one of the youngest museums - it was opened in the summer of 2014. The main part of the exposition is devoted to the history of the Kazakh people, the life and culture of the country, the formation of the republic and other significant events and eras in the life of the state. The exposition is represented by 11 halls, each dedicated to a separate topic. The most interesting are, of course, the Golden Hall with the most valuable artifacts found in archaeological excavations in Kazakhstan, as well as the Nur-Sultan Hall with a model of its modern central part. A tour of this amazing place will not leave anyone indifferent and will bring a lot of new things to your personal baggage of knowledge about Kazakhstan. Getting to the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan is easy - it is located in the central part of the capital. #nur-Sultan #kazakhstan #museum

Nur-Sultan is a city where the possibilities of modern architecture manifested themselves. The main idea of ​​Nur-Sultan development is the embodiment in the architecture of a combination of the rationality of the West and the sophistication of the East, the grandiosity of Europe and the originality of Asia. In the construction of the city, in changing its appearance, the most advanced technologies and innovative methods of the art of urban planning of the 21st century were used. World-famous architects brought their best projects to life here. The springboard for this was the left bank of the Yesil River, which until recently was empty. In 1999, by decision of UNESCO, Nur-Sultan received the title of "City of Peace". Nur-Sultan has about 20 parks, 13 museums, 5 theaters and a large number of other attractions that attract city guests and delight local residents with their beauty. #nur-Sultan #kazakhstan

#nur-Sultan promenade is good way to enjoy your evening. You can cross all park with its attractions and caffe for one hour. Park is great place for runners and anyone who likes activities. You can rent bike from people here or take electro scooter by app: Jet or ÖZIM. On the river side there are plenty of coffee, burgers and ice cream shops. Good idea to finish your evening with live music and good kitchen at The Times restaurant. #summertrip#gourmetsummer

Here is the unique building of Expo 2017 in Astana (Nur-Sultan), Kazakhstan. There are 8 floors all dedicated to new ideas of ecological ways of making electricity. Every floor says a different story of the future. It is also the only 100% round skyscraper in the world at the moment. #happynewyear

1 year ago when I visited the place it was called Astana. Nowadays the name of this big city is Nur-Sultan named after the first president of free Kazakhstan - Nur-Sultan Nazarbayev. The city is famous with its skyscrapers and also with very extreme steppe climate with temperatures ranging from -55°C to +40°C #kazakhstan #astana #nursultan #happynewyear #happynewyear

The Baiterek Tower is located at the center of Nur-Sultan, previously known as Astana and 20 years ago - Akmola. The city is the capital of Kazakhstan - very big country in central Asia. The view from the top is amazing. You have a bird eye view of all the sights of the town. #happynewyear

Hello from Astana- Nur-Sultan 2019, Kazakhstan! Even this is the place where i came from i have never been in other cities, except Almaty. Suprisingly, the city was so different comparing with my city! Here i have meet so much foreigners! I never knew that enomours foreign people love our country! It is fact, that in out country you can find millions of various international restraunts with all the types of national cousine! So being in Astana for the first time i tried Henkali which is the most famous dish in Georgia! it looks like a dumplings with meat abd vegetables! You should try it! And my new traveler story continues with the next post!

#chinatravel Kazakhstan is not loud. It doesn’t chase your attention. It whispers — through golden steppes, deep-blue lakes, and snowy peaks that touch the sky. Wild horses run across the open plains. Mosques glow under pastel sunsets. Mountains reflect in turquoise waters like forgotten dreams. From the timeless rhythm of nomadic life, to the ultra-modern skyline of Astana, this is a land where past and future sit side by side. #kazakhstan #哈萨克斯坦 #almaty

📍 Itinerary Overview Its a high developed city full of architecture marvels, run around in rent bike 🚇 Transportation: Taxi / cab with Bolt or Yatzee 🍜 Local Cuisine: Many options, for vegetarians too! 💡 Tips: Download Jet to use the rent bikes and scooters.

#Astanatravellers #Safran

Local cuisine Solyanka &chicken shashlik was amazing to share 2 people. Clean and tasty, served quick. 😍

I recently had the incredible opportunity to visit the largest mosque in Central Asia. 🕌 The architecture was absolutely stunning, with intricate details and designs that left me speechless. From the moment I stepped inside, I was in awe of the sheer size and beauty of the place. 🤩 I highly recommend a visit to anyone who appreciates art and culture. 🙌 Visitors are warmly welcomed, so don't hesitate to explore this magnificent landmark! #CentralAsia #Mosque #Architecture #Travelgram #Beautiful

🌇 Highlights ① Nur Alem Expo Museum ▫️ The world's largest spherical building! ② Astana Grand Mosque ▫️ Blue-and-white architectural beauty ▫️ The symmetrical fountain plaza outside is perfect for photos; ▫️ Free robes for women at the entrance, and the stunning crystal chandeliers inside will take your breath away! ③ Khan Shatyr: A giant "desert tent" housing beaches, shopping, and even a roller coaster! 🏖️ ④ Bayterek Tower (Tree of Life): The prime photo spot on the central axis 📸 ⑤ Abu Nasr al-Farabi Mosque: A hidden gem with a golden dome! ⑥ City Frame: At the end of the central axis, framing Astana's "CBD" 📌 Practical Tips 🍴 Eat: ▫️ Khan Shatyr is a shopping mall with many restaurants inside; ▫️ There's also a large mall opposite the Expo Plaza. 🚇 Transport: ▫️ Attractions are concentrated! Use Yandex Go for taxis (starting at ≈10 RMB in the city).

Astana is a new city, which means modern buildings and wide avenues. But, unfortunately, it has no historical sights. If you accept this, then a walk around the city on a transfer will bring pleasure.

Kazakhstan｜Daily Direct Flights & Visa-Free, Central Asia Has Never Been More Appealing! Who still thinks Kazakhstan is some distant, obscure destination? The China-Central Asia Summit held here in June boosted tourism, and this stunning visa-free gem is now hotter than ever! 🌟 **Almaty**: Named one of CNN’s "Top 25 Global Destinations for 2025," it’s perfect for city walks. Explore Zenkov Cathedral, Ascension Cathedral, Central Mosque, and the Green Bazaar. 🌟 **Astana**: The capital dazzles with futuristic architecture like the Bayterek Tower (inspired by the Tree of Life myth) and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, a hub of art and culture. 🌟 **Aktau**: A blend of tradition and modernity, with Soviet-era apartment blocks adorned with murals and a laid-back coastal vibe. 🌟 **Turkistan**: Home to the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a 700-year-old Timurid-era masterpiece and one of the region’s largest preserved structures. 🌟 **Balkhash**: Blessed by Lake Balkhash—serene waters, migratory birds, and breathtaking sunsets create picture-perfect moments. ✈️ **Why Fly Air Astana?** 🌟 **Extensive Routes**: Serving China for 20+ years with multiple direct flights: 1️⃣ Beijing & Ürümqi-Almaty: Daily 2️⃣ Beijing-Astana: 2x weekly (3x from July 15) 3️⃣ Guangzhou-Almaty: 3x weekly 4️⃣ Sanya-Almaty & Astana: 2x weekly 🌟 **Award-Winning**: Named "Best Airline in Central Asia & CIS" for the 14th consecutive year at Skytrax 2025. 🌟 **Seamless Transits**: Almaty and Astana are top hubs for Central Asia, the Caucasus, Middle East, and Europe. Opt for the **MyStopover** package (from $19): 10+ hour layovers include a 3-4★ hotel, breakfast, and transfers. 🌟 **Premium Comfort**: Fly the A321LR ("narrow-body jet elite") with an average age of 2.6 years. Features flat-bed Business Class and **Economy Sleeper Seats**—triple seats convert to beds with mattresses, duvets, and pillows. Even the amenity kit matches Business Class! With **30-day visa-free access** to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, pack your bags for an unforgettable Central Asian adventure! #AirAstana #CentralAsiaTravel #Kazakhstan #Almaty #Astana #A321LR #VisitKazakhstan

New road to Northern Kazakhstan is amazing!

It is pleasure to try out some Kazakh’ local cuisine. I highly recommend the restaurant called ”Qazaq Gourmet"! 💰Average Price per Person: 25$

It’s also a unique experience to see how people in Austin I’ll leave in the outskirts of the city, especially in the modern areas!

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 1.Park Inn by Radisson Astana, Kz 💡 Tips

such a nice place

such a nice view from the bridge