Almaty, Kazakhstan-3-day-itinerary

August 4, 2024

Day 1: Explore Almaty’s City Center

Green Market (Zeleny Bazaar): Start your day by visiting this bustling marketplace where you can sample local produce, try traditional snacks, and shop for souvenirs.
Panfilov Park: Take a stroll through this beautiful park that features several monuments, fountains, and walking paths. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
State Historical Museum (Gosudarstvenny Istoriychniy Muzey): Learn about Kazakhstan’s history and culture at this comprehensive museum.

Take a guided tour of the city center to get an overview of Almaty’s main sights and attractions.
Visit the Green Market and try some local street food, such as beshbarmak or kuyrdak.

Tasty Cafe: Try traditional Kazakh dishes in this cozy cafe that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.
Green Market Food Stalls: Enjoy a snack or meal at one of the many food stalls within the Green Market.

Hotel Royal Palace Almaty: This 5-star hotel is located in the heart of the city center and offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.
Hostel Almaty Central: For budget-friendly options, consider staying at this hostel that provides dorms and private rooms.

Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular tourist attractions.
Try to learn a few basic phrases in Kazakh, such as “hello” (koshkar), “thank you” (rakhmat), and “goodbye” (sarab).
Don’t drink tap water.

Taxi: Hire a taxi for transportation around the city. Be sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey.
Public Transportation: Use buses or marshrutkas (mini-vans) for affordable public transportation options.

Don’t miss the stunning view of Almaty’s skyline from the top floor of the Kazakstan Tower.
Visit the beautiful Botanical Garden, which features over 7,000 plant species.
Enjoy traditional Kazakh music and dance performances at one of the many cultural centers in Almaty.

Day 2: Explore Almaty’s Natural Attractions

Almaty Gorge (Alma-Arasan): Take a scenic drive through this stunning gorge, which features towering mountains, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
Turgen Gorge: Visit this picturesque valley that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and a chance to spot local wildlife.

Hike in the Almaty Gorge or Turgen Valley for a chance to explore Kazakhstan’s natural beauty.
Take a boat ride on Lake Kaindy, which is situated within the Turgen Gorge.

Restaurant Turgen: Enjoy traditional Kazakh cuisine at this cozy restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.
Food Stalls in Almaty Gorge: Try local street food and snacks from vendors within the gorge.

Hotel Altay: Stay overnight in the nearby town of Ust-Kamenogorsk for easy access to Almaty’s natural attractions.
Camping Sites in Turgen Valley: For a more adventurous experience, consider camping in one of the scenic valleys within the Turgen Gorge.

Be prepared for changing weather conditions and potential delays on mountain roads.
Respect local wildlife and their habitats.
Bring a camera to capture stunning views and memorable moments.

Taxi: Hire a taxi for transportation around Almaty and its surrounding areas.
Public Transportation: Use buses or marshrutkas (mini-vans) for affordable public transportation options.

Don’t miss the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets in the Turgen Valley.
Learn about Kazakhstan’s unique geology and mining history within the Almaty Gorge.
Take a scenic drive to the nearby town of Saty, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 3: Visit Almaty’s Cultural Centers

The Big Almaty Lake: Start your day by visiting this beautiful lake that features crystal-clear water and stunning mountain views.
National Museum of Kazakhstan (Kazakhstan National Muzeya): Learn about the country’s rich history, culture, and art at this comprehensive museum.

Visit a traditional Kazakh teahouse to sample local tea-making techniques and try some delicious snacks.
Attend a performance at one of Almaty’s many cultural centers, which feature music, dance, and theater performances.

Restaurant Bazaar: Try traditional Kazakh cuisine in this cozy restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.
Food Stalls in National Museum Grounds: Enjoy local snacks and drinks within the museum grounds.

Hotel Kazakhstan: Stay overnight at this 5-star hotel that offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.
Hostel Almaty Cultural: For budget-friendly options, consider staying at this hostel that provides dorms and private rooms.

Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular tourist attractions.
Respect local traditions and customs within the cultural centers.
Don’t miss the stunning view of Almaty’s skyline from the National Museum’s grounds.

Taxi: Hire a taxi for transportation around Almaty and its surrounding areas.
Public Transportation: Use buses or marshrutkas (mini-vans) for affordable public transportation options.

Don’t miss the stunning view of the Big Almaty Lake from the top floor of the Kazakhstan Tower.
Learn about Kazakhstan’s unique architecture and design within the National Museum.
Attend a traditional Kazakh dance performance at one of Almaty’s many cultural centers.