What to See in Almaty

  If you are visiting Almaty for the first time, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the dozens of interesting places to explore. In this guide, we have brought together the city’s most popular attractions, natural landmarks, and routes to help you discover Almaty at any time of year.

Central Park of Culture and Recreation  

One of Almaty’s oldest parks was established in the 19th century and remains a favourite leisure destination for local residents. Visitors can stroll along shady avenues, enjoy the rides, rent a bicycle or pedal boat, and relax by the lake.

The park is especially lively in summer, when cafés, children’s playgrounds, and entertainment areas are open. In the evening, the park is illuminated with attractive lighting.

Suitable for:

• families with children;
• walking;
• photo shoots;
• peaceful relaxation.

Park of the 28 Panfilov Guardsmen

This is one of Almaty’s most recognisable landmarks. The spacious park is known for its tall fir trees, monuments dedicated to the heroes of the Second World War, and its peaceful atmosphere.

One of the city’s main symbols is located here — the Ascension Cathedral, built entirely of wood without the use of a metal framework. Despite a powerful earthquake in the early 20th century, the cathedral survived with almost no damage and is regarded as an outstanding example of wooden architecture.

The park is ideal for leisurely walks at any time of year.

Ascension Cathedral  

The vibrant, colourful cathedral has long been one of Almaty’s most recognisable landmarks. Rising more than 50 metres high, its unique wooden structure attracts the attention of architects from around the world.

Following extensive restoration, the area surrounding the cathedral has become even more pleasant for walking. In the evening, architectural lighting makes the building look particularly impressive.

Green Bazaar

To experience the authentic character of Almaty, make sure to visit the Green Bazaar.

Here you will find fresh fruit, oriental sweets, nuts, dried fruit, spices, honey, kazy, shubat, kurt, and dozens of other traditional products.

Even without buying anything, the market is worth visiting for its atmosphere alone. Many vendors offer samples of their products, so a simple walk through the bazaar can easily turn into a small culinary tour.

Kok Tobe  

Kok Tobe is one of Almaty’s most popular observation points.

You can reach the summit by car or take the famous cable car, which offers impressive views of the city.

At the top, you will find:

• an amusement park;
• restaurants;
• a Ferris wheel;
• souvenir shops;
• art installations;
• a small zoo.

Kok Tobe is especially beautiful at sunset, when thousands of city lights gradually begin to glow.

Medeu High-Altitude Skating Rink

Located at an altitude of almost 1,700 metres, the famous Medeu skating rink is one of the highest-altitude rinks in the world.

In winter, visitors can go ice skating, while in summer the area becomes a popular destination for walking and outdoor activities.

The famous Health Stairway begins at Medeu and leads to the dam, with the route continuing towards the Shymbulak ski resort.

Shymbulak Ski Resort

Just a few kilometres from the city centre lies Kazakhstan’s largest ski resort.

In winter, it attracts skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, while in summer visitors come for the mountain trails, panoramic views, and fresh air.

A cable car takes you to an altitude of more than 3,000 metres, where you can discover a completely different side of Almaty, surrounded by snow-covered peaks.

Big Almaty Lake

One of the most beautiful places near the city.

Its turquoise waters, coniferous forests, and snow-capped peaks make the lake one of Kazakhstan’s most photographed natural attractions. The colour of the water changes depending on the season and lighting, ranging from vivid azure to deep emerald.

Please note that the area around the lake is subject to border-zone regulations, so it is advisable to check the latest entry requirements before travelling.

Museum of Folk Musical Instruments

A small but fascinating museum with an extensive collection of traditional Kazakh musical instruments.

Here, visitors can learn about the history of the dombra, kobyz, zhetygen, and other instruments, as well as explore Kazakhstan’s rich musical traditions.

A. Kasteyev State Museum of Arts

The country’s leading art museum.

Its collection features works by Kazakh, Russian, and European artists, as well as contemporary art and temporary exhibitions. Even if you rarely visit museums, this is a place worth adding to your itinerary.

What to See Near Almaty

If you have a car or a free day, be sure to explore beyond the city.

The most popular destinations include:

• Charyn Canyon;
• Kolsai Lakes;
• Lake Kaindy;
• Assy Plateau;
• Turgen Gorge;
• Lake Issyk;
• Altyn-Emel National Park;
• the Singing Dune.

These natural attractions are among the most beautiful places in Kazakhstan and draw thousands of travellers every year.

Where to Go in the Evening

After sunset, Almaty does not lose its charm.

You can stroll along the pedestrianised Panfilov Street, dine at a restaurant overlooking the mountains, take a trip up to Kok Tobe, attend a theatre performance or concert, or simply enjoy the evening atmosphere in Republic Square.

What to See in Almaty in One Day

If you are short on time, your itinerary could look like this:

• Park of the 28 Panfilov Guardsmen;
• Ascension Cathedral;
• Green Bazaar;
• Panfilov Street;
• Republic Square;
• Kok Tobe at sunset.

This route allows you to see the city’s main landmarks in just one day.

Conclusion  

Almaty is one of the most beautiful cities in Central Asia. It offers a harmonious blend of modern urban life, historic landmarks, and magnificent natural scenery. Whether you are visiting for a weekend or planning a longer trip, Almaty always has somewhere new to impress you with its atmosphere and beauty.