2025 Astana Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in September)

For weekend visits to Chatuchak Market, the most convenient accommodation option is the Best Western Chatuchak Hotel. Located right next to Chatuchak Park, the Farmers Market, the Blue Line MRT station, and a 7-11, it offers excellent accessibility and convenience. The hotel rooms have been renovated and are quite modern, even featuring Google TV. The check-in lobby is on the 6th floor, the restaurant is on the 4th floor, and guests need to go to the 6th floor first to access the dedicated elevator to the rooms, which requires a room card for security—a great feature for travelers. The room type booked was a Superior Double Room, with a space of approximately 23 square meters. The room is spacious, well-lit, and features a super comfortable large double bed and pillows. The hotel staff are friendly and welcoming, making it a great choice for international travelers. Plus, the price is very reasonable, around NT 1,500 per night on weekdays without breakfast.

If you only have one day in Astana, you can still see the city’s main highlights. Start with Baiterek Tower, the symbol of the capital, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Then head to Khan Shatyr, the futuristic tent-shaped shopping and entertainment center. Don’t miss the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, an impressive glass pyramid surrounded by beautiful gardens, and take a walk along the Nurzhol Boulevard to see the modern architecture up close. If time allows, visit the Hazrat Sultan Mosque, one of the largest and most stunning mosques in Central Asia. By the end of the day, you’ll have experienced Astana’s mix of modern design, cultural landmarks, and wide open spaces — all in just 24 hours. #adventuremoments #astana

🌇 Highlights ① Nur Alem Expo Museum ▫️ The world's largest spherical building! ② Astana Grand Mosque ▫️ Blue-and-white architectural beauty ▫️ The symmetrical fountain plaza outside is perfect for photos; ▫️ Free robes for women at the entrance, and the stunning crystal chandeliers inside will take your breath away! ③ Khan Shatyr: A giant "desert tent" housing beaches, shopping, and even a roller coaster! 🏖️ ④ Bayterek Tower (Tree of Life): The prime photo spot on the central axis 📸 ⑤ Abu Nasr al-Farabi Mosque: A hidden gem with a golden dome! ⑥ City Frame: At the end of the central axis, framing Astana's "CBD" 📌 Practical Tips 🍴 Eat: ▫️ Khan Shatyr is a shopping mall with many restaurants inside; ▫️ There's also a large mall opposite the Expo Plaza. 🚇 Transport: ▫️ Attractions are concentrated! Use Yandex Go for taxis (starting at ≈10 RMB in the city).

[6 Days and 5 Nights Deep Tour in Kazakhstan] Unlock the Secrets of Central Asia! A Visual Feast from Snow Mountains to Deserts Hey everyone! I just got back from Kazakhstan, and this visa-free treasure of a country has truly amazed me! 🏔️ From the Alps-like snow mountains to the Mars-like red deserts, and prices so low they're touching (a cup of coffee is only 8 RMB!), today I'm offering you this freshly baked guide with both hands, to take you around this mysterious Central Asian country~ ✈️ [Transportation Guide] ▪️ Airplane: Direct flights from Beijing/Urumqi to Almaty (3.5 hrs) ▪️ Domestic Transportation: Recommended Yandex taxi (cheaper than taxis) ▪️ Intercity Transportation: High-speed rail/airplane are both convenient (Astana-Almaty high-speed rail 5 hrs) ▪️ Must-have APP: Yandex Maps + Translate 🏔️ [DAY1: First Impression of Almaty] 🕘 9:00 Ascension Cathedral The second tallest wooden church in the world! The candy-colored exterior is super dreamy, and the murals inside are breathtaking~ The morning light is best for taking pictures 🕛 12:00 Green Bazaar Super local market! Must-eat in the food area on the second floor: ▪️ Shashlik (charcoal grilled lamb skewers) ▪️ Baursak (Kazakh fried dough) 🕒 15:00 Kok-Tobe Hill Take the cable car up the mountain to overlook the whole city! The rainbow chair and Beatles sculpture on the top of the mountain are popular spots for taking photos, and it's so beautiful at sunset that you'll cry 🍖 Dinner Recommendations: ▪️ Navat (traditional Kazakh restaurant, the horse sausage platter is amazing) ▪️ Auyl (tent restaurant to experience nomadic culture) 🏜️ [DAY2: Shymbulak Ski Resort] 🕗 8:00 Medeu Ice Rink The highest ice rink in the world! You can play even in summer, and the snow mountain in the background is super stunning 🕐 13:00 Shymbulak Ski Resort The most luxurious ski resort in Central Asia! In summer, you can take the cable car to see the snow mountain, and you must try the plov in the restaurant on the top of the mountain 🌃 19:00 Arbat Pedestrian Street Almaty's "Champs Elysées"! There are street performances at night, remember to bargain when buying souvenirs (recommended Kazakh felt hats) 🔥 [DAY3: Kapchagay Canyon] 🕘 9:00 Charyn Canyon Mini version of the Grand Canyon! The red canyon is super photogenic, remember to wear non-slip shoes to walk the Moon Valley trail 🕑 14:00 Kolsai Lakes The "Pearl of the Tian Shan Mountains" lives up to its name! The three alpine lakes are like sapphires, and the lakeside is full of wildflowers in July-August 🍵 Dinner Recommendations: ▪️ Gakku (horse meat specialty restaurant) ▪️ Coffeedelia (popular industrial style coffee shop) 🚞 [DAY4: Modern Journey of Astana] 🕗 8:00 Khan Shatyr The largest tent building in the world! Inside is a shopping center, and the top floor has an indoor roller coaster and artificial beach 🕛 12:00 Hazrat Sultan Mosque The most beautiful mosque in Central Asia! The blue and gold dome shines in the sun, girls should wear robes to enter 🕠 17:00 Bayterek Tower The 91-meter-high "Christmas tree" building, you can see the panoramic view of the city when you climb to the top, and the light show at night is super stunning 🍴 Dinner Recommendations: ▪️ Astana Grill (high-end steakhouse) ▪️ Line Brew (craft beer + German sausage) 🏕️ [DAY5: Burabay National Park] 🕘 9:00 Lake Burabay "Kazakh Switzerland"! You can ride horses around the lake, and the wooden houses by the lake are super fairytale-like for taking pictures 🕑 14:00 Mount Okzhetpes It's super exciting to take the cable car to the top! The "Lonely Piano" on the top of the mountain is a popular spot for taking photos on Instagram 🌌 [DAY6: Altyn-Emel National Park] 🕗 8:00 Red Mountains It's like landing on Mars! It's beautiful to wear a white or black dress for taking pictures, it is recommended to rent an off-road vehicle for in-depth exploration 🕛 12:00 Singing Dune Mysterious sand dunes that can "sing"! You can hear a roar when you slide down from a high place, it's super magical 🔥 [Must-Play List TOP5] 1️⃣ Charyn Canyon (red canyon blockbuster) 2️⃣ Kolsai Lakes (sapphires of the Tianshan Mountains) 3️⃣ Khan Shatyr (futuristic architectural miracle) 4️⃣ Lake Burabay (Little Switzerland of Central Asia) 5️⃣ Red Mountains (Martian surface experience) 💡 [Precautions] ▪️ Visa-free for 30 days, but pay attention to the passport validity period ⌚️ ▪️ The temperature difference between day and night is large in September, so bring a coat 🧥 ▪️ It is recommended to exchange currency in the city (the exchange rate at the airport is poor) 💰 ▪️ Prepare some small change (tipping culture) 💰 ▪️ Respect local religious customs ⛪️ Sitting by Kolsai Lake watching the reflection of the snow mountain, I suddenly understood why the Kazakhs say this is "God's back garden". Here, there is both the boldness of the nomadic people and the avant-garde sense of the future. You can encounter unexpected things every time you turn a corner!

Astana: Ambitions of a Young Country✨️ On Christmas Eve 1991, Moscow became the focus of the world: the red Soviet Union, which once made the world tremble, announced its disintegration on this night; the former Soviet republics, who were like brothers, now had to rebuild their borders.💡🤗 In Almaty, 3,000 km away from Moscow, the leader of the newly born country of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev, was ready to make a big splash in this new country.👣 In 1997, Nazarbayev signed a presidential decree to move the capital from Almaty in the south to Astana, a new city on the northern steppe with a higher proportion of Russians.❗️Compared to the strong Soviet style of Almaty, Astana uses a lot of postmodern architecture, which is refreshing and shows the determination of this emerging country to embrace the world.🍁

Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, is a dazzling city that blends ancient history with modern style, attracting the world's attention with its unique charm👀. The city was originally named Akmola and was not officially established as the new capital of Kazakhstan until 1997. It was then renamed Astana, which means "capital". In recent years, it has been renamed several times and finally returned to its original name in 2022, witnessing the historical changes since Kazakhstan's independence🏛️. Astana is located in the north-central part of Kazakhstan, with the Ishim River running through the city, adding a touch of agility and vitality to the city🌊. The city's modern construction is eye-catching, with high-rise buildings rising from the ground and wide roads crisscrossing, showing the prosperity and vitality of Kazakhstan as an important country in Central Asia🌆. As the political, economic, and cultural center of Kazakhstan, Astana has many important government agencies, corporate headquarters, and cultural facilities. It is not only the center of national political decision-making, but also the engine of economic development, attracting a large amount of domestic and foreign investment, and promoting the rapid development of the city💰. Astana's cultural heritage is also profound. The city is full of museums, theaters, and art galleries, providing citizens and tourists with a rich cultural experience🎨. Among them, the Bayterek Observation Tower, as a landmark building in the city, towers into the clouds. It is not only an excellent place to overlook the city, but also a symbol of Kazakhstan's independent spirit🗼. In addition, Astana's natural scenery should not be overlooked. The city is surrounded by vast grasslands and magnificent snow-capped mountains, with distinct seasons and different scenery. Whether it is the greenery of summer or the silver-wrapped winter, it is fascinating🏞️. Astana's food culture is also rich and colorful. It combines Central Asian traditional flavors with modern innovations. Whether it is authentic Kazakh food or Western food, Chinese food, and other cuisines, you can find it in this city🍴. In local restaurants or markets, you can taste a variety of delicious dishes and feel the enthusiasm and hospitality of the Kazakh people. Astana is a city full of charm and vitality. It attracts the world's attention with its unique history, modern construction, rich culture, and beautiful natural scenery. Whether it is a business trip or a sightseeing tour, it will bring you unforgettable memories🌈.

The Astana Grand Mosque, located in the capital of Kazakhstan, is the largest mosque in Central Asia and one of the top ten largest mosques in the world. Completed in 2022, the mosque covers nearly 70,000 square meters and can accommodate over 200,000 worshippers. The main dome of the mosque stands over 80 meters high with a diameter of more than 60 meters, surrounded by four 130-meter-high minarets symbolizing the Five Pillars of Islam. Additionally, what excites me the most is the unique architectural design of the Astana Grand Mosque, which blends traditional and modern elements, making it a significant landmark in the region. Here are some tips for visiting the mosque🔔 👔: Visitors should dress conservatively, with both men and women covering their shoulders and knees. Women should wear a headscarf, and the mosque provides shawls. Shoes must be removed before entering the mosque. 🕘: The mosque is closed to non-Muslim visitors during prayer times, so it is best to check the specific opening hours before your visit. Generally, non-prayer times are more suitable for visits. 📸: Photography inside is usually allowed, but avoid taking pictures of people in prayer. 🚌: The mosque is located in the city center of Astana, with convenient transportation options. You can choose to take a taxi or public transportation. There is also parking available for those driving.

"French Quarter" is the first residential complex of the "Urban Romance" series from the "Basis-A" company, stylized as the classical urban architecture of European countries. The residential complex is located in the Almaty district of Nur-Sultan, on the border of the park area at the intersection of Panfilov and Kaldayakov streets. The residential complex is located in a prestigious developing area. Nearby is a great place for recreation and walks - the Presidential Park, the embankment of the Yesil River. The residential complex has a large selection of restaurants and cafes. Walking distance to Haileybury Astana school. A 10-minute walk from the National Museum, the Palace of Peace and Accord (Pyramid), the Palace of Independence, the Kazakh National University of Arts, the mosque "Khazret Sultan", a kindergarten and a school-lyceum "Nur Orda".#nursultan #kazakhstan

My hometown Astana (Nur-Sultan) is well known with its great Monument Baiterek. «Baiterek» means a young, strong, special meaning of a tree, it symbolizes a state that has preserved its historical beginning, which has a strong support and aspiration for future prosperity. We have a park around Baiterek called Nurly Zhol Boulevard. Moreover, if you are interested of what inside the Baiterek you can enter it and even take the elevator to the highest floor of the monument. Having been in Astana and not looking at the city from the view of Baiterek is simply unthinkable. A ticket costs an average of 2000 tenge it is 4,25$. #staycation #nursultan #kazakhstan #astana

A little-known Central Asian tourist attraction, Kazakhstan The National Museum of Nur-Sultan is divided into various exhibition halls. 1. A history hall that follows the history of Kazakhstan 2. Special exhibitions that can be viewed for an additional fee 3. A special exhibition of modern art There are many things to see, and you can see various exhibits that remind you of nomadic people. However, you need an additional permit to take pictures. If you take pictures without a permit, you can be fined, so be careful! #Exhibition #Kazakhstan #Nur-Sultan #SpecialExhibition

The National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan is considered not only the largest museum institution in the country, but it has no analogues in all of Central Asia. It is also one of the youngest museums - it was opened in the summer of 2014. The main part of the exposition is devoted to the history of the Kazakh people, the life and culture of the country, the formation of the republic and other significant events and eras in the life of the state. The exposition is represented by 11 halls, each dedicated to a separate topic. The most interesting are, of course, the Golden Hall with the most valuable artifacts found in archaeological excavations in Kazakhstan, as well as the Nur-Sultan Hall with a model of its modern central part. A tour of this amazing place will not leave anyone indifferent and will bring a lot of new things to your personal baggage of knowledge about Kazakhstan. Getting to the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan is easy - it is located in the central part of the capital. #nur-Sultan #kazakhstan #museum

#nur-Sultan promenade is good way to enjoy your evening. You can cross all park with its attractions and caffe for one hour. Park is great place for runners and anyone who likes activities. You can rent bike from people here or take electro scooter by app: Jet or ÖZIM. On the river side there are plenty of coffee, burgers and ice cream shops. Good idea to finish your evening with live music and good kitchen at The Times restaurant. #summertrip#gourmetsummer

Here is the unique building of Expo 2017 in Astana (Nur-Sultan), Kazakhstan. There are 8 floors all dedicated to new ideas of ecological ways of making electricity. Every floor says a different story of the future. It is also the only 100% round skyscraper in the world at the moment. #happynewyear

1 year ago when I visited the place it was called Astana. Nowadays the name of this big city is Nur-Sultan named after the first president of free Kazakhstan - Nur-Sultan Nazarbayev. The city is famous with its skyscrapers and also with very extreme steppe climate with temperatures ranging from -55°C to +40°C #kazakhstan #astana #nursultan #happynewyear #happynewyear

The Baiterek Tower is located at the center of Nur-Sultan, previously known as Astana and 20 years ago - Akmola. The city is the capital of Kazakhstan - very big country in central Asia. The view from the top is amazing. You have a bird eye view of all the sights of the town. #happynewyear

Hello from Astana- Nur-Sultan 2019, Kazakhstan! Even this is the place where i came from i have never been in other cities, except Almaty. Suprisingly, the city was so different comparing with my city! Here i have meet so much foreigners! I never knew that enomours foreign people love our country! It is fact, that in out country you can find millions of various international restraunts with all the types of national cousine! So being in Astana for the first time i tried Henkali which is the most famous dish in Georgia! it looks like a dumplings with meat abd vegetables! You should try it! And my new traveler story continues with the next post!

#mytraveldiary Astana (now Nur-Sultan) isn’t just a city—it’s a statement. On my return visit, I dove deeper into its audacious architecture, cultural heartbeat, and the vast, windswept beauty of the Kazakh steppe. This time, it felt less like exploring a capital and more like understanding a nation’s bold dream. My Solo Itinerary (Encore Edition): · Morning – Skyline & Symbolism Revisited: I started at the Bayterek Tower again—but this time, I went at sunrise, when the golden orb glowed against a pink sky and the city felt entirely mine. Then, I explored the National Museum of Kazakhstan with a sharper eye, spending hours in the Hall of Gold and the cultural exhibits tracing nomadic heritage. · Afternoon – Architecture & Green Spaces: I wandered the Left Bank, marveling at the Khan Shatyr (the world’s largest tent) and the soaring Abu Dhabi Plaza. I relaxed in Nurzhol Boulevard’s fountains and gardens, then discovered the Hazret Sultan Mosque—a stunning masterpiece of Islamic architecture offering peace and grandeur. · Evening – Local Flavors & Night Views: I ventured into a traditional khanaka (tea house) for beshbarmak and kumis, chatting with locals about life in the new capital. As dusk fell, I joined a river cruise along the Ishim River to see the city’s skyline illuminated—a breathtaking spectacle of light and ambition. Why Astana is Even Better the Second Time: · Beyond the Icons: I explored the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation in depth, attending a concert or exhibition inside. I also visited the EXPO 2017 site, a futuristic cluster of pavilions focused on energy and innovation. · Cultural Nuances: I timed my trip with Nauryz (Kazakh New Year in March) or the Astana International Ballet Festival, immersing in celebrations and performances. · Day Trips: I took a train to the Burabay National Park—the “Kazakh Switzerland”—for hiking, lakes, and a escape into nature. Astana is a city that reveals its soul slowly—a blend of ambition, tradition, and infinite horizon. --- Hashtags: #BackToAstana #NurSultan #Kazakhstan #FutureCity #SoloTravelReturn

#mytraveldiary Astana (now Nur-Sultan) isn’t just a capital—it’s a statement. Rising from the vast Kazakh steppe, this city of jaw-dropping architecture, gleaming towers, and warm nomadic soul offers a surreal and unforgettable experience for the intrepid solo traveler. My Solo Itinerary: · Day 1 – Skyline & Symbolism: Marveled at the otherworldly Bayterek Tower, touched the golden handprint of Nazarbayev, and soaked in panoramic views of the city’s futuristic skyline. Explored the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, a pyramid dedicated to global harmony. · Day 2 – Culture & Khan Shatyr: Wandered through the National Museum of Kazakhstan, home to priceless Golden Man artifacts. Later, visited Khan Shatyr, the world’s largest tent—where I shopped, sipped coffee, and even people-watched… indoors in a climate-controlled marvel. · Day 3 – Nurzhol Boulevard & Local Bites: Strolled along the grand Nurzhol Boulevard, flanked by government buildings and contemporary art installations. Tried beshbarmak (traditional meat and noodle dish) and kumis (fermented mare’s milk) at a local restaurant—bravery rewarded! Top Tips for Solo Travelers: · Dress in Layers: Weather shifts quickly—windy, cold, or blazing sun all in one day. · Use Yandex Taxi: Affordable and reliable app-based rides across the city. · Learn Basic Russian/Kazakh: Phrases like “rakhmet” (thank you) go a long way. · Stay Near the Left Bank: Most iconic sights are within walking distance here. Astana feels like stepping into tomorrow, while still holding the soul of the steppe. Perfect for solos who love architecture, space, and something totally unique. --- Hashtags: #SoloAstana #NurSultan #Kazakhstan #FutureCity #OffThePath

Astana

It’s was amazing experience

The Baiterek Tower is hands-down the iconic superstar of Astana! 🇰🇿✨ Soaring 97 meters high, this architectural legend is shaped like a tree of life topped with a dazzling golden sphere—a total vision straight out of Kazakh folklore. Here’s the real superpower: head up to the observation deck, and get ready for 360° jaw-dropping views of Astana’s modern skyline and all its futuristic vibes. 🚀 The mix of sleek design and rich tradition here is honestly next level! It’s both a throwback to ancient myths and a symbol of the city’s bold rise. I was obsessed with the way the Baiterek Tower pulled off “ultra classy” and “cultural icon” at the same time. If you want to feel the real spirit of Astana, this is the spot to vibe out! ✨ Travel Hack: Slide in around sunset—when that golden sphere glows against the colorful Kazakh sky, it’s a whole aesthetic upgrade for your feed. 📸 Baiterek Tower Details: 📍 Location: Nurzhol Bulvar, Astana (right in the city center) ⏰ Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily 🎟️ Tickets: Buy at entry or check trip.com for deals! Trust me, if you’re in Astana, skipping Baiterek Tower? Rookie mistake. Add it to the top of your must-see list! #historicallandmarks

Kazakhstan Nursultan is the nice place to come again

📅 Itinerary Day1： Day2: Day3: 🏨 Accommodation 🍴 Food Recommendations 📌 Tips

#holidayitinerary Astana in Akmola Region is a city that feels both futuristic and welcoming at the same time. Known for its bold architecture and wide open boulevards, the capital of Kazakhstan is full of landmarks that leave an impression. The Bayterek Tower, with its panoramic views, is a favorite stop, while the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation and the Khan Shatyr shopping and entertainment center show off the city’s creativity and ambition. Walking through Astana, you notice how modern development blends with touches of tradition, giving it a unique character. The city is also home to cozy cafes, cultural centers, and peaceful riverside areas where you can relax. Astana is not just a political capital but also a dynamic destination that reflects Kazakhstan’s bright future.

#holidayitinerary The Palace of Peace and Reconciliation in Astana, Akmola Region is a striking modern landmark that immediately catches your attention with its unique pyramid shape. Surrounded by gardens and open spaces, the building feels both futuristic and symbolic. Inside, the atmosphere is calm and inspiring, with spacious halls, art displays, and cultural exhibits that highlight the theme of unity and dialogue. Many visitors enjoy climbing to the upper levels, where natural light fills the space and creates a serene setting. From the top, you also get great views of the city. The palace is not just an architectural wonder but also a meaningful place that reflects Kazakhstan’s commitment to harmony. Visiting here gives you a mix of cultural insight and an appreciation for impressive design.

It has unique featured center which has all kind of shopping brands and top floor there was a entertainment center including air train, water park, all other toys and games which kids can enjoy, food section theres is lot kind of restaurant and fast foods including kfc… But I enjoyed Kazakhstan’s national food a lot.

Night view is stunning, feels like that in a some random disney movie or something like that. Besides this Mosque Elite apart hotel is great to stay.

#chinatravel Kazakhstan is not loud. It doesn’t chase your attention. It whispers — through golden steppes, deep-blue lakes, and snowy peaks that touch the sky. Wild horses run across the open plains. Mosques glow under pastel sunsets. Mountains reflect in turquoise waters like forgotten dreams. From the timeless rhythm of nomadic life, to the ultra-modern skyline of Astana, this is a land where past and future sit side by side. #kazakhstan #哈萨克斯坦 #almaty