Top Things to Do in Almaty

About the City

Almaty, a city nestled at the foot of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, is a gem of Kazakhstan that pulsates with the heartbeat of Central Asian culture and modern flair. Imagine walking through streets laced with verdant trees, offering a leafy embrace that contrasts the urban landscape. It's a place where stately Soviet-era architecture coexists with glitzy shopping centers, where traditional bazaars hum alongside swanky cafes. Hunks of sizzling shashlik fragrantly tempt your tastebuds at every corner, while the lofty peaks remind you that nature's majesty is just a stone's throw away. But it's not always beshbarmak and roses; the flip side of the coin reveals struggles with traffic congestion that'll test the patience of a saint. And if you're prone to hay fever, brace yourself, for the city's lushness belies an alliance with pollen that can leave you sneezing. Winter might invite you with its snowy charm, yet it demands fortitude against its biting chill. No city is perfect, and Almaty's personality melds its splendors and flaws into an unforgettable experience, much like a Kazakh tapestry interwoven with vibrant threads and frayed edges. It's a city of contrasts, ripe for adventure, compelling you to explore its multifaceted existence.

Things to Do in Almaty

Munching on Shashlik

Food & Drink

Skewer your appetite on Shashlik, the ever-popular, smoky barbecue dream on a stick. These juicy bits of marinated meat grilled to perfection will have you reaching for 'just one more' until you're pl...

Kayaking Adventure

Outdoors

Get ready to paddle your heart out on some of Almaty's picturesque rivers and lakes. Whether you're kayaking solo or with pals, working those biceps has never been so scenic!

Graffiti Galore

The Unexpected

Whip out your camera for a wicked urban art safari! Almaty’s streets are splashed with vibrant graffiti that turns alleys into galleries. Keep those peepers peeled for the next splash of wall genius!

Herbal Retreat

The Unexpected

Find your zen and get steeped in tradition by hopping into a local tea house! From green tranquility to floral bloom infusions, it’s a tea-riffic way to relax!

Jazz Joints Jumpin'

The Unexpected

Get groovy with Almaty’s jazz scene! There’s nothin’ like the sound of sax in the night to make your soul sing. Hit up a jazz club and let the rhythm take you away!

Coffee Quest

The Unexpected

Embark on a caffeinated expedition through Almaty's coolest coffee shops. Whether you fancy a frothy cappuccino or a robust ristretto, get ready to buzz through the city!

Paragliding Over the Heavenly Mountains

Outdoors

Get ready to spread your wings and catch the thermals! Paragliding in Almaty is a chance to float over the city like a cloud and snag some seriously epic views of the Tien Shan Mountains. It's like ge...

Botanical Garden Adventures

Outdoors

Stroll through Almaty's beautiful botanical garden where you can flex your flora knowledge or simply pretend you're in a fairy tale. Don't miss out on the perfect mix of chill vibes and nature's own e...

Alpine Hiking Extravaganza

Outdoors

Lace up those hiking boots for an epic trek through the Tien Shan Mountains that'll have your calves screaming 'is it spa day yet?' The crisp mountain air, jaw-dropping views, and chance encounters wi...

Urban Hike & Art Hunt

Outdoors

Take yourself on an urban excursion around Almaty and keep your eyes peeled for awesome street art. Test your navigation skills while discovering colorful murals hidden in plain sight!

Dipping into Chak-chak

Food & Drink

Get sticky with Chak-chak, a sweet treat that's as fun to say as it is to eat! These fried honey-drenched dough pieces stacked like a mini-mountain will make your sweet tooth do a honeyed happy dance.

Ascending Kok-Tobe

Sights

Hop on the funicular to the top of Kok-Tobe hill! At the summit, you'll find more than just stunning views – there's a theme park and a TV tower that's lit up like a beacon of fun!

Soaking in the Arasan Baths

Sights

Chill out and soak like a sultan at the legendary Arasan Baths. This is relaxation central, where you steam away stress in an architectural wonder. Go on, give those muscles a well-deserved pamper ses...

Diving into Kazakhstan's History at the Central State Museum

Sights

Time-travelers, here's your pit stop! The Central State Museum is where you'll unearth Kazakhstan’s crazy-cool past. Mummies, meteorites, and ancient golden treasures - it's like a history buff's trea...

Taming the Heights of Ile-Alatau National Park

Sights

Nature nerds, assemble! Trek through the Ile-Alatau National Park and set your eyes on some of the most epic landscapes you'll ever see. Trees for days and mountain breeze - it's pure bliss on earth.

Swirling through the Museum of Folk Music Instruments

Sights

Get your culture on and boogie to the beats of Kazakh history at the Museum of Folk Music Instruments. It's a total jam session with ancient dombra lutes and more - no Spotify required!

Indulging in Lagman

Food & Drink

Slurp up some Lagman, the saucy, spiced noodle dish that's a tasty testament to Central Asian and Chinese fusion. With veggies, beef, and hand-pulled noodles, it's like a party in your mouth!

Nibbling on Kurt

Food & Drink

Pop a piece of Kurt in your mouth and let the tangy, salty taste of this dried cheese ball zing your taste buds! This snackable dairy delight doubles as a perfect edible souvenir – just try not to eat...

Chowing Down on Kazy

Food & Drink

Wrap your taste buds around the zesty, smoky flavors of Kazy – a true Kazakh delicacy! This traditional horse meat sausage is a must-try for the adventurous foodie, often served with a side of potatoe...

Historical Tram Ride Extravaganza

The Unexpected

All aboard the nostalgia express! Hop on a vintage tram and rattle through Almaty's streets like it's the olden days. Cling to your seat as you clank past landmarks and feel every cobblestone along th...