Almaty, Kazakhstan-6-day-itinerary

Almaty, Kazakhstan: A 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Almaty International Airport (ALA)
  • Take a taxi or bus (#79) to your hotel in the city center
  • Check-in to your hotel and freshen up
  • Visit the nearby Astana Square to get a feel of the city’s atmosphere

Afternoon

  • Head to the Green Market, a bustling marketplace selling everything from souvenirs to local delicacies
  • Explore the adjacent Zeleny Bazaar, a historic market offering a variety of goods
  • Try some traditional Kazakh cuisine at Assel Restaurant (try their beshbarmak and shashlik)

Evening

  • Take a stroll along the Kok-Tobe Hill, which offers panoramic views of the city
  • Enjoy dinner at Café Britannique, serving European-inspired dishes with a local twist

Day 2: Nature Escapes

Morning

  • Take a day trip to the nearby Turgen Gorge ( approx. 1-hour drive)
  • Hike to the stunning Bear Falls, surrounded by lush forests and mountains

Afternoon

  • Visit the Assumption Cathedral, a beautiful Russian Orthodox church
  • Relax at the scenic Lake Issyk, offering boating and picnicking opportunities

Evening

  • Return to Almaty and enjoy dinner at Line Brew, a craft brewery with delicious pub grub

Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Morning

  • Visit the National Museum of Kazakhstan, showcasing the country’s history and culture
  • Explore the nearby Palace of the Republic, an impressive building hosting various events

Afternoon

  • Attend a traditional Kazakh performance at the Kazakhstan Concert Hall
  • Browse the exhibits at the A. Kasteev Museum of Arts, featuring local and international art pieces

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Gosti Restaurant, serving modern takes on traditional Kazakh dishes
  • Catch a movie or live show at the Kinopanorama Cinema

Day 4: Outdoor Adventures

Morning

  • Take a day trip to the Chimbulak Ski Resort (approx. 1.5-hour drive)
  • Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or simply take in the breathtaking views

Afternoon

  • Visit the Medeo Gorge, offering hiking trails and picturesque scenery
  • Try horseback riding or archery at the Altyn Orda Horse Club

Evening

  • Return to Almaty and enjoy dinner at Bistro 1855, serving international cuisine with a focus on local ingredients

Day 5: Scenic Views and Relaxation

Morning

  • Take a scenic drive to the Big Almaty Lake (approx. 1-hour drive)
  • Enjoy boating, fishing, or simply take in the stunning views

Afternoon

  • Visit the Kok-Tobe Park, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains
  • Relax at the Wellness Center Kok-Tobe, featuring a spa, pool, and gym facilities

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Vino Vino, serving Italian-inspired dishes with an extensive wine list

Day 6: Last Day in Almaty

Morning

  • Visit the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan, showcasing the country’s natural history and cultural heritage
  • Explore the nearby Gorky Park, a popular recreational spot for locals and tourists alike

Afternoon

  • Last-minute shopping at the Mega Mall or Dostyk Plaza
  • Depart for the airport and head back home

Accommodation

  • Hotel Kazakhstan: A luxurious hotel with comfortable rooms and a central location
  • Almaty Hotel: A budget-friendly option with basic amenities and a convenient location

Transportation

  • Taxi: Available at the airport and throughout the city ( approx. 1,500 KZT / $4 USD per ride)
  • Bus: Regular services connect the airport to the city center (approx. 150 KZT / $0.40 USD per ride)

Tips and Essentials

  • Language: Kazakh and Russian are the primary languages spoken; English is becoming more widely understood
  • Currency: Kazakhstan Tenge (KZT); 1 USD ≈ 400 KZT
  • Weather: Almaty has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers; pack accordingly
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or attending cultural events

Other Things to Know

  • Almaty is a relatively safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings
  • Haggling is common at markets, so be prepared to negotiate prices
  • Try some of the local fruits, such as apples and apricots, which are renowned for their quality

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation, giving you a comprehensive experience of Almaty, Kazakhstan. Enjoy your trip!