Welcome to Almaty, the beating heart of Kazakhstan! Whether you have half a day, a full day, or a couple more, we’ve got you covered with an action-packed itinerary. Get ready for mountains, culture, food, and a sprinkle of chaos – the perfect way to experience Almaty like a pro!

Half-Day in Almaty: The Express Sampler

If you’ve got just half a day, you need to move fast.

• Start with a caffeine fix at one of the city’s trendy cafés in the Golden Square (Almaty’s central district – check our website for hotel recommendations!).

• Head straight to Kok Tobe, the city’s famous hilltop park, for stunning views of Almaty and a selfie with The Beatles statue.

• Speed-shop at Green Bazaar – grab dried fruits, nuts, or a tub of horse milk (yes, it’s a thing).

• Wrap it up with Panfilov Park and the iconic Zenkov Cathedral before heading off to your next destination.

Day 1: Mountains, Markets & Music

Congrats, you have a full day! Let’s make it epic.

Morning – Straight to the Mountains

• Book a Yandex electric car to take you straight to Shymbulak – no need for an uphill walk to the slopes.

• Breakfast with a view at one of Shymbulak’s cafes. Take it slow, soak it in.

• Ascend to Talgar Pass (3,200m) – you’re now at the top of the world (almost)!

• Return via cable car and stop at Auyl Restaurant for a neo-nomadic lunch – modern Kazakh cuisine in a yurt-style setting.

Afternoon – City Vibes

• Shop & explore at Green Bazaar – this is where you stock up on Kazakh souvenirs.

• Visit the Zenkov Cathedral – one of the world’s tallest wooden churches (and it’s earthquake-proof!).

• Stroll through Panfilov Park – a lovely place dedicated to WWII heroes.

Evening – Fine Dining & Rock ‘n’ Roll

• Dinner at Afisha – a gorgeous restaurant with views of the Opera Theatre.

• End the night at Harat’s Pub on Panfilov Street – live rock music, cold beer, and good vibes.

• Sleep? Who needs sleep? Rest on the plane!

If that was your only day – congratulations, you nailed Almaty’s best spots! Safe travels!

Day 2: Nomadic Nature & Steak Feasts

You’re still here? Great choice! Time for a road trip.

Morning – Charyn Canyon or Kolsai Lakes

• Book an early tour – because both of these places are mind-blowingly stunning.

• Charyn Canyon: Think of it as the Grand Canyon’s little cousin – dramatic rock formations, deep gorges, and endless photo ops.

• Kolsai Lakes: A surreal alpine escape – crystal-clear lakes nestled between steep, green mountains.

• Nap in the car – because it’s a 4-hour drive each way!

Evening – Time for a Legendary Steak

• You’ll be starving after all that adventure. Refuel at:

  • Beefeter – Home of Kazakhstan’s best steaks, including horse heart steak (you’re practically a nomad now).

  • Ziyafet – Even more steak choices if you’re feeling indecisive.

By now, you’ve checked off a natural wonder AND eaten like a Kazakh warrior. Achievement unlocked!

Day 3: Museums, Metro & Mellow Moments

Still in town? We love your dedication. Time to slow down and explore Almaty’s cultural side.

Morning – Arts & History

• A. Kasteyev Museum – Kazakhstan’s finest collection of art, from Soviet realism to Kazakh impressionism.

• National Museum – See the legendary Golden Man and learn about nomadic history.

Afternoon – Chill & Explore

• Take a ride on Almaty’s metro – super clean, affordable, and each station is a work of art.

• Wander around the city – you deserve a relaxed day after all that action.

• Book a city tour – explore hidden gems with a local guide who knows all the best spots.

• Snap some Instagram-worthy shots – from futuristic metro stations to charming old streets, Almaty has plenty of photo-perfect locations!

Evening – Farewell Almaty

• Consider a night out at a concert or just enjoy a final walk through the buzzing streets.

• Start planning your next trip – because Almaty has so much more to offer: trekking, cultural festivals, and the legendary Seven Rivers region!

Now you’ve truly seen almost everything – at least the essential highlights! Next time, come back for the music festivals, deep mountain trekking, or an epic journey through the legendary Seven Rivers region. If you're feeling adventurous, explore Kazakhstan’s vast steppes, hidden villages, and remote national parks. There's always more to discover.

We’ll be happy to see you again! Safe travels! 🚀