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Almaty is the former capital of Kazakhstan. Located in the Almaty Province, this is the largest city and still has some diplomats from other countries that reside here. Although Astana is now the capital for some time, not all diplomats have made the trip over to there to set up. As far as Central Asia is concerned, Almaty is the cultural and financial center. That is a big title for not such a big city. Many students come here to study as it is the most important city to see in Central Asia, or Kazakhstan at all. There is much tourism, in fact it is one of the major sources of income for the city. With a wealth of public buses and trolleys, it is easy to navigate and explore Almaty. With so many beautiful sites and monuments, who wouldn’t want to take a visit here?

Almaty Pictures

Things to do in Almaty

The World War II Soviet monument, dedicated to the fallen heroes, serves as a nice reminder to the historical roots of this city. The statue is magnificent with soldiers shooting out of all sides. The Presidential Palace is another incredible site. Though no one is allowed inside, the outside architecture is worth making a trip here. Alpine Park is home to the Medeu skating rink. If you come during the winter here, you can rent skates and enjoy some time racing around the rink. Turgen Gorge is great if you and your friends have a day to spend hiking around this lovely gorge. With many waterfalls and an abundance of wild plants, trees, and flowers; it is really a great time. Big Almaty Lake is another nice aesthetic outdoors site. This lake is surrounded all around by the peaks of the mountains as well. This only adds to the beauty of it. Back inside of the main city, Republic Square or “New Square”, is a staple site. Arbat Street is fun for window shopping and stopping in at cafes.

Nightlife in Almaty

Tinkoff has a good selection of locally brewed beers if that is your thing. People in Almaty take pride in their beers; they’re not as much a wine country. Although there are good varieties of wines, beers, and liquors in stores and bars. Sapphire is a lot of fun for college kids. The bar/club has good drinks at fairly reasonable prices. And there are a few set up hookah type, “shisha” as it’s called here, lounges around the perimeter. Tien Shan is another good place for local brews. There are a couple micro brews from time to time. Alma-Ata beer is a popular Almaty brewed beer. Every bar will be sure to serve it. And if they don’t, they’re no good. Also as far as vodka is concerned, try sticking to Glavspirttrest. It is a Russian variety and will help ensure you don’t get a bad hangover.

Dining in Almaty

In Almaty there is a large Korean population as so there are many Korean restaurants. But don’t think that is the only type of food. Many other countries have left their mark. There are plenty of pizza restaurants, Indian, and Chinese places. Restaurant chain il Patio / Planet Sushi has great sushi, and get this; pizza as well. If you think that is weird, well don’t. There are even weirder combinations of foods in Almaty. Zheti Qazyna is a little more on the pricey side, but the ambiance is really nice and the food is incredible. Sapphire also has a great atmosphere. Although the vibe is a bit more hip, as this place becomes a club at night.

Shopping in Almaty

When shopping in Almaty, remember that your dollar can be stretched very far here. Especially for college travelers, it is nice to visit a place where you can buy a coke for the equivalent of $.50. This is only good news in the recent difficult economic times. $1.00 is about 150 tenge. Taxis in the city run about 300 to 400 tenge. Vodka is around 350 tenge and a beer will cost you around 70 tenge. Besides the everyday essentials, other goods like clothing, cars, and apartments can be more costly. For tourists, however, this really isn’t a problem. If you go to Arbat Street you will want to stop in at the TsUM store. Every city that is post-soviet occupied has this store for whatever reason. They all do. Inside are electronics, clothing, and souvenirs. For locally produced goods, purchasing felt products and homemade rugs will fill that need. Everything from slippers to children’s toys are made with felt. It is quite a sight looking at the displays in stores. Green Market is a good place to get locally grown fresh produce. Fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, dried fruits, and spices are sold daily here.

Almaty Travel Tips

• Bring layers as it can get very cold at night.
• The local currency is the tenge.
• It is legal to smoke in public places, so look out for non-smoking sections of restaurants.