One perfect day in Almaty

Almaty, Kazakhstan’s former capital, is most visitor’s entry point to this vast Central Asian country. Chances are you’re not just going to be passing through, but sticking around for a few days to enjoy the city’s varied sights. If you’re pressed for time, make sure you spend at least one perfect day in Almaty.

How to spend one perfect day in Almaty

If we were to visit Kazakhstan and only had 24 hours in the city, there are certain sights we wouldn’t miss for the world.

Indulge your senses at these restaurants

Start with breakfast at the Cafeteria at Baiseitova Str. 32, on the corner of Kurmangazy – serious coffee and a cosmopolitan atmosphere – make sure to take your time. When you’re done head up by bus number 6 (stops in front of the Hotel Kazakhstan) or by taxi to Medeo, up in the mountains to the south of the city. From there take the cable car to Shymbulak and the Talgar Pass (3200 m) to take in the amazing mountain scenery and the views back over Almaty.

From Shymbulak ski station go back to the city for lunch. Almaty is definitely one of Central Asia’s better eating cities, but don’t expect prices to be all that cheap – Kazakhstan is the richest of the Central Asian republics and has a sizeable middle class who like to eat out. We would recommend Wild Asia and Argento for international food, and Tiubiteyka for local food.

Panfilov Park and Zenkov Cathedral

To work off the food we would stroll to Panfilov Park and Zenkov Cathedral (officially known as Ascension Cathedral), both in the centre of the Almaty. Panfilov has some interesting war memorials and is good for people watching. Zenkov is made completely of wood – without nails – and is an icon of the city. Not far away is the renowned Museum of National Musical Instruments – in our opinion, probably the country’s best museum.

Cable car to Koktobe Hill

Rounding off the afternoon, head back to the Hotel Kazakhstan. Behind the hotel, to the right hand side is the cable car station to Koktobe Hill. You can get an amazing sunset view from here – like LA, the air quality means stunning colours!

Explore the metro during your one perfect day in Almaty

Two alternative ideas if you need a few extra activities – firstly explore the new metro system. It only has seven stations, so will only a take a short time. Or head for the Arasan Baths – a real downtown banya with birch leaves for sale.

Kazakhstan is one of our more popular destinations. Check out our Kazakhstan country page with details of what do and see. All trips created by our local travel companies are 100% bespoke and unique to you.