Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, is a cultural and economic hub set against the backdrop of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. Once the capital until 1997, it remains the country’s most vibrant urban center, known for its wide boulevards, green spaces, and mix of Soviet and modern architecture. The city’s name comes from the Kazakh word for apple, and the region is believed to be the birthplace of the domesticated apple, with wild varieties still growing in nearby forests. Almaty has long been a crossroads of trade and culture, sitting along the historic Silk Road. Today, it continues to be a dynamic blend of tradition and progress, making it an intriguing place to experience Kazakhstan’s past and present.
Following some incredible adventures in Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, Almaty was our first stop as we continued our journey through Kazakhstan. Arriving after a five-hour bus ride from Bishkek, we spent three days in the city, making the most of our limited time to explore as much as possible. In this post, I share my experiences and photos from the trip, along with our walking itinerary and practical information to help you plan your visit within a similar timeframe.
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Where to stay in Almaty
We stayed in Wanderlust Boutique Hostel, a stylish and cozy accommodation option that caters to travelers looking for a social yet comfortable stay. Located in a convenient part of the city, it offers a modern, design-focused atmosphere with shared and private rooms. The hostel stands out for its artistic decor, relaxed common areas, and welcoming vibe, making it popular among backpackers and digital nomads. An excellent choice for budget travelers.
For a mid-budget stay, Hotel Kazakhstan is a well-known choice. This iconic Soviet-era hotel, with its distinctive tower shape, offers comfortable rooms with panoramic city views. Located in the heart of Almaty, it provides easy access to major attractions, restaurants, and parks. While the decor retains some of its vintage charm, the hotel offers modern amenities and a reliable stay at a reasonable price.
For a high-budget option, The Ritz-Carlton, Almaty offers a luxurious experience with five-star service. Situated in the Esentai Tower, the city’s tallest building, it boasts spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the mountains. Guests can enjoy fine dining, a world-class spa, and personalized service. If you’re looking for high-end comfort with stunning views and top-tier facilities, this is one of the best choices in Almaty.
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Day #1: A Walk Around the Neighborhood
Being tired from the trip, we took it easy on our first afternoon in Almaty. We mostly relaxed at the hostel, venturing out only for a short stroll and a meal in the neighborhood.
Situated in the foothills at the city’s southeastern edge, the Medeu District is known for its scenic views, fresh mountain air, and upscale living. The pavements were broad and shaded by towering firs and poplars. The streets were well-signposted and uncongested, with the few cars on them being noticeably expensive and predominantly white. The restaurants were posh and significantly more expensive than what we had encountered so far in Central Asia.
After a costly but tasty meal in this elegant traditional restaurant, we called it a night before the long day of exploration ahead.
Day #2: Sightseeing Walk around Almaty
The awakening city was pleasantly tranquil as we stepped out in the morning and followed Kabanbay Batyr Street toward the center. This cozy little café was just opening as we passed by, just in time for our breakfast.
The streets had come to life as we resumed our way. Locals of mixed Turkic and Russian ancestry hurried to their pursuits—by car, on foot, or on the e-scooters scattered across the sidewalks. We considered using them too, but they turned out to be even more expensive than taxis.
We came across a few interesting sights along the way, including the Academy of Sciences and a miniature Eiffel Tower. Upon reaching the city center, we explored some of Almaty’s most notable attractions in the following order.
Republic Square & Independence Monument
We started at Republic Square (location), one of Kazakhstan’s most prominent public spaces, symbolizing the country’s sovereignty and national identity. Surrounded by imposing government buildings, the square features a blend of Soviet-era grandeur and modern national symbolism. At its center stands the Monument of Independence, topped by the Golden Warrior, a figure inspired by an ancient Scythian artifact, often likened to mythical deities. Other sculptures around the square represent Kazakh history, leadership, and cultural heritage. A large glass dome near the fountains provides natural light to an underground hall, adding a contemporary touch to the site. As a venue for official events and celebrations, the square is a key place to observe Kazakhstan’s evolving national narrative.
Baiseitova Street
We continued along Baiseitova Street (location) which starts at Independence Square and runs through a central part of the city, offering a blend of administrative buildings, cultural sites, and urban life. Named after Kulyash Baiseitova, a renowned Kazakh opera singer, the street reflects the city’s historical and artistic heritage. As you move away from the square, you’ll find a mix of Soviet-era architecture and modern developments, along with small shops, cafes, and green spaces. Though not as bustling as some of Almaty’s major avenues, Baiseitova Street provides a pleasant walk through an area that connects key parts of the city’s cultural and governmental landscape.
Kazakh-British Technical University
Baiseitova Street led us to the Kazakh-British Technical University (location). This is a relatively new educational institution focused on engineering, technology, and business studies. It aims to provide internationally recognized education, often in collaboration with British academic institutions, bringing a global perspective to Kazakhstan’s higher education landscape. It is housed in what was once the headquarters of the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, a grand Soviet-era building with a neoclassical design. While it is primarily an academic space, its presence reflects Almaty’s growing role as an educational hub in Central Asia.
Zhibek Zholy Street
By noon, we found ourselves in Zhibek Zholy Street (location), a lively pedestrian thoroughfare known for its mix of shopping, dining, and local commerce. Its name, meaning “Silk Road” in Kazakh, hints at the city’s historical connection to the ancient trade routes that once passed through the region. Today, the street is lined with small shops, cafes, and market stalls, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for everyday goods or a casual stroll. We had a cup of coffee and a kebab for lunch and resumed sightseeing.
Zeleny (Green) Bazaar
Zeleny Bazaar (location), or the Green Bazaar, is one of Almaty’s most famous and historic markets, offering a vibrant glimpse into Kazakh culture and daily life. Dating back to the late 19th century, this bustling marketplace has long been a hub for trade, where vendors sell everything from fresh produce and spices to meats, dairy products, and traditional Kazakh delicacies like kurt (dried cheese balls) and shubat (fermented camel milk). The bazaar’s lively atmosphere, with its mix of aromas, colors, and friendly bargaining, makes it a sensory experience as much as a shopping destination.
Park of the 28 Panfilov Guardsmen & Ascension Cathedral
The Park of the 28 Panfilov Guardsmen (location) is one of Almaty’s most well-known green spaces, dedicated to the Soviet soldiers who defended Moscow in World War II. Within the park stands the Ascension Cathedral, a striking Orthodox church built in 1907, notable for its pastel-colored facade and intricate design. Although no wooden parts are visible—being covered in plaster and paint—the cathedral’s frame is entirely made of wood. At 56 meters tall, it is regarded as the world’s tallest wooden church. Beyond its impressive height, the cathedral is also famous for its remarkable durability, having withstood several major earthquakes.
The park itself is lively, with families, tourists, and street vendors filling its walkways. Horse-drawn carriages, resembling something out of a fairy tale, offer rides through the park, adding a nostalgic charm. Pigeons gather in large flocks near visitors, often being fed or chased by children, while stalls sell traditional sweets and snacks.
Central Park of Almaty
The Central Park of Almaty (location), also known as Gorky Park, is one of the city’s oldest and most popular recreational spaces. Established in the 19th century, the park spans over 100 hectares and offers a mix of greenery, amusement rides, and family-friendly attractions. Once a Soviet-era leisure spot, it has evolved into a modern entertainment hub while retaining its nostalgic charm. The park features a small zoo, a lake with boat rentals, and various cafés, making it a favorite weekend destination for locals. Despite modernization, it still carries echoes of its past, with old Soviet-style sculptures and wide, tree-lined walkways.
Having walked upward of 15 km, we wrapped off the day with some drinks and food in the lively Kabanbay Street near our hostel.
Day #3: A Hike to Kok Tobe Park of Almaty
On our third and last day in Almaty, we decided to take a trip to Kok Tobe Park. Sitting atop the homonymous Kok Tobe Hill, it offers one of the best panoramic views of Almaty and the surrounding mountains. Accessible by cable car, winding road, or a hiking trail, the park combines scenic beauty with entertainment. It features a small amusement park, souvenir stalls, cafés, and even a bronze statue of The Beatles, the first monument to the band in Central Asia. A notable landmark is the Kok Tobe TV Tower, one of the tallest freestanding towers in the world.
The cable car costs 3,500 KZT and departs from here. Since we had the whole day before catching our night bus to Balkhash, we opted to hike both ways from our hostel. We took the trail starting here, which seemed rarely used, as it was overgrown and often lined with thorns. The extreme heat made the ascent even more challenging, but the effort was well worth it.
Activities in Kazakhstan
Photos
View (and if you want use) all my photographs from Almaty in higher resolution.
