Almaty Kazakhstan 2 Day Itinerary

Almaty, Kazakhstan 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the City

Morning

  • Start at Green Market (Zeleny Bazaar): A bustling marketplace offering a wide range of local products, souvenirs, and traditional food. Try some fresh fruits, nuts, or dried fruits.
  • Visit the nearby Zenkov Cathedral: A beautiful Russian Orthodox cathedral made entirely of wood, built in 1907.

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll through Panfilov Park: A picturesque park with beautiful gardens, fountains, and monuments. Relax and enjoy the scenery.
  • Head to the Museum of National Instruments: Learn about Kazakhstan’s rich cultural heritage and see an impressive collection of traditional instruments.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Assel Restaurant: Savor local cuisine, such as beshbarmak (noodle dish) or shashlik (skewers), in a cozy atmosphere.
  • Take a walk along the pedestrianized Dostyk Avenue: Admire the city lights and enjoy street performers and live music.

Day 2: Nature Escapes

Morning

  • Visit the Almaty Botanical Garden: Explore over 300 species of plants, including rare flowers and trees.
  • Take a cable car ride to Kok-Tobe Hill: Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the highest point in Almaty.

Afternoon

  • Relax at Medeo Gorge: A scenic gorge with beautiful scenery, hiking trails, and a tranquil atmosphere. You can also visit the nearby Shymbulak Ski Resort.
  • Try some local street food at the Medeo Market: Sample traditional dishes like shurpa (soup) or kuyrdak (boiled meat).

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Kok-Tobe Restaurant: Savor international cuisine with a focus on local ingredients, accompanied by stunning city views.
  • End your day with a stroll along the Ishim River Embankment: Take in the city lights and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Accommodation

  • Hotel Kazakhstan: A centrally located hotel offering comfortable rooms and modern amenities.
  • Airbnb options: Choose from a range of apartments and houses, many with stunning views of the mountains.

Transportation

  • Taxi: Hail a taxi on the street or use apps like Yandex Taxi or UBER.
  • Public Transportation: Use buses or marshrutkas (minivans) to get around the city. Routes can be found online or at bus stops.

Things to Know

  • Language: Kazakh and Russian are widely spoken, but many locals also speak English, especially among younger generations.
  • Currency: Tenge (KZT) is the local currency, although US dollars and credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Dress Code: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or traditional markets.

Tips

  • Haggle at markets: It’s a common practice to negotiate prices at Green Market and other bazaars.
  • Respect local customs: Remove your shoes before entering homes or mosques, and avoid public displays of affection.
  • Try local beverages: Sample traditional drinks like kumis (fermented horse milk) or shubat (camel’s milk).

Other Interests

  • Day trips: Consider visiting nearby towns like Turgen or Issyk, known for their natural beauty and historical significance.
  • Outdoor activities: Almaty offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, skiing, or horseback riding in the surrounding mountains.

Enjoy your trip to Almaty, Kazakhstan!