Shymkent, Kazakhstan-5-day-itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Shymkent, Kazakhstan

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Shymkent International Airport (CIT) and take a taxi or bus to your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Shymkent City Museum to learn about the city’s history and culture. Explore the nearby Green Market, a bustling marketplace selling local goods and souvenirs.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Kazakh cuisine at Assel Restaurant, known for its delicious beshbarmak (noodle dish) and shashlik (skewers).
  • Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Shymkent or Park Inn by Radisson, both offering comfortable rooms and amenities.
  • Things to Know: Shymkent is a relatively small city, so walking or taking short taxi rides can get you around easily. Be prepared for variable weather, with warm summers and cold winters.

Day 2: History and Architecture

  • Morning: Visit the Shymkent Fortress, a historic fortification dating back to the 12th century. Explore the nearby Cathedral of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, a beautiful Orthodox church.
  • Afternoon: Walk through the Old Town, admiring the mix of Soviet-era and modern architecture. Stop by the Shymkent Monument, dedicated to the city’s founding.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Khan Shatyr Restaurant, offering a range of international dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
  • Transportation: Use taxis or buses to get around, or walk if you prefer.

Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

  • Morning: Head to the Shymkent Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis with over 2,000 plant species. Take a stroll along the nearby Syr Darya River.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve, home to diverse flora and fauna (about an hour’s drive from Shymkent).
  • Evening: Unwind at Arasan Bath Complex, offering traditional Kazakh baths and spa treatments.
  • Tips: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or churches. Remove your shoes before entering homes or religious buildings.

Day 4: Shopping and Entertainment

  • Morning: Explore the Dostyk Plaza Mall, offering a range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Shymkent Zoo, home to over 200 animal species. Catch a movie at Kinopark Cinema or enjoy bowling at Bowling Alley.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Tashkent Restaurant, serving Uzbek and Kazakh dishes in a lively atmosphere.
  • Things to Buy: Look for traditional handicrafts, such as embroidered clothing, handmade jewelry, and intricately decorated ceramics.

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market.
  • Afternoon: Head back to Shymkent International Airport (CIT) for your departure flight.

Other Tips and Information

  • Language: While many locals speak some English, it’s still a good idea to learn basic Kazakh phrases, such as “сәлем” (hello) and “рәхмет” (thank you).
  • Currency: The Kazakhstani tenge is the local currency. You can exchange money at banks or currency exchange offices.
  • Safety: Shymkent is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Enjoy your trip to Shymkent, Kazakhstan!