Destination

Almaty

Country: Kazakhstan Updated:

Almaty is Kazakhstan's largest city, at the foot of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, known for its green streets, markets, cafés and proximity to the mountains.

Almaty and the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains in Kazakhstan
Image: AI illustration · Rights: no public licence for reuse has been specified.

When to go

Spring and autumn are pleasant in the city, summer suits mountain trips, and winter sports and snowy landscapes are popular in winter.

Things to see and do

Visit Panfilov Park and the Ascension Cathedral, explore the Green Bazaar, go up Kök-Töbe, and visit Medeu, Shymbulak and the region's natural attractions.

Practical tips

Distances within the city are long. For mountain excursions, take altitude and rapidly changing weather into account.

Getting there and getting around

Almaty has an international airport and rail connections to other cities in Kazakhstan.

Where to stay

Central neighbourhoods around Abai Avenue, Panfilov and popular restaurant areas are convenient.

What to try

Typical food includes beshbarmak, baursaki, manti, lagman, kazy and modern Kazakh cuisine.

Official sources