Christmas & New Year
Shopping Districts and Malls
1. Esentai Mall
2. Dostyk Plaza
3. Mega Alma-Ata
4. Silk Way City
5. Green Bazaar
6. Arbat Street
Specialty Stores and Boutiques
1. Sulpak
2. Kazzhol
3. Chocolife
Local Products and Souvenirs Shopping in Almaty
1. Traditional Kazakh Crafts
2. Kazakh Textiles
3. Bukhara Carpets
4. Local Food Products
5. Tengri Umai Gallery
Dining and Relaxation
1. Cafes and Restaurants
2. Tea Houses
Practical Tips for Shopping in Almaty
1. Currency and Payments
2. Language
3. Bargaining
4. Shopping Hours
5. Safety and Etiquette
Conclusion
Shopping in Almaty: Ultimate Guide to Malls, Markets, and Souvenirs
Almaty is the largest city in Kazakhstan and it’s a great place for culture, food, and shopping. It’s in the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains and has a mix of modern and traditional things to do. Almaty is a fun place to shop whether you’re looking for fancy clothes, traditional Kazakh crafts, or local food. You can embark on a thrilling adventure with our amazing Almaty tour packages and discover the true beauty of this incredible destination! However, this guide will show you the best shopping places in Almaty, what to buy, and give you tips for a better shopping experience.
Shopping Districts and Malls
1. Esentai Mall
Esentai Mall is one of the most happening places for shopping in Almaty. It’s a luxury shopping center located in the heart of the city. It offers a variety of high-end international brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Prada. The mall also has fine dining restaurants, a cinema, and a fitness center. If you’re looking for luxury and exclusivity, Esentai Mall is the place to go. Esentai Mall is one of those places in Almaty, Kazakhstan you wouldn’t like to miss.
2. Dostyk Plaza
Dostyk Plaza is a well-liked shopping mall that offers a mix of international and local brands. It’s a great place for both tourists and residents. You can find stores like Zara, H&M, and Mango, as well as Kazakh brands like Aport and Koton. In addition to shopping, Dostyk Plaza has various restaurants and cafes, making it a nice spot to relax and socialize. Must add this to your list of places for shopping in Almaty.
3. Mega Alma-Ata
One of the biggest shopping places in Almaty is Mega Alma-Ata. It has a wide variety of stores, including fashion, electronics, and home goods. You can also find a food court, ice rink, and a cinema there, making it a great place for families. With its diverse range of stores, there’s something for everyone, no matter their budget or preferences.
4. Silk Way City
The Silk Way Centre is a shopping center located in the city center. It offers high-quality products, restaurants, and entertainment services including a modern cinema. Must add this to your itinerary if you want to go shopping in Almaty.
5. Green Bazaar
If you’re looking for local markets in Almaty then Green Bazaar is the place to go. In Green Bazaar also known as Zelyony Bazaar, you’ll get an authentic shopping experience that offers a peek into the local culture and lifestyle. You can find fresh produce, spices, meats, and traditional Kazakh sweets. The bustling market is also a great place to shop for souvenirs such as traditional clothing, handmade crafts, and unique trinkets. It’s common to negotiate for the best prices, so be prepared to haggle. Do remember that shopping in Green Bazaar is one of the Exciting Things to Do in Almaty.
6. Arbat Street
Arbat Street, also called Zhibek Zholy, is a popular pedestrian shopping street in Almaty. You can walk along the street and visit shops, cafes, and street vendors. It’s one of the best shopping places in Almaty for clothes, accessories, and souvenirs while enjoying the lively atmosphere with street performances and local art displays.
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Specialty Stores and Boutiques
1. Sulpak
Sulpak is a popular chain of electronics stores in Kazakhstan. They sell a wide variety of electronics, such as smartphones, laptops, home appliances, and more. Sulpak has many stores throughout the city and offers competitive prices and great customer service. This makes a top shopping place in Almaty for people who love technology.
2. Kazzhol
Kazzhol is a well-liked store for traditional Kazakh clothing and accessories. It sells a wide range of items, from everyday clothes to special occasion outfits. The detailed designs and high-quality materials make Kazzhol a favourite among both locals and tourists. If you want to take home a piece of Kazakh culture, Kazzhol is the place to shop in Almaty.
3. Chocolife
Chocolife offers a variety of high-quality chocolates and confectioneries with a range of flavours and styles, from classic to innovative creations. It’s a great place to buy gifts or treat yourself to something sweet.
Local Products and Souvenirs Shopping in Almaty
1. Traditional Kazakh Crafts
In Almaty, Kazakhstan, you can find handmade items like felt products, traditional hats, jewellery, carpets, and pottery. These items are great souvenirs and gifts that represent the cultural heritage of Kazakhstan.
2. Kazakh Textiles
Kazakh textiles are well-known for their high quality and beautiful designs. You can find a variety of textiles, including silk scarves and woollen blankets, reflecting traditional patterns and colours of Kazakhstan. These items are both beautiful and practical, adding a touch of Kazakh culture to your home.
3. Bukhara Carpets
Are you someone who enjoys art and crafts? Consider purchasing handmade carpets from Bukhara Carpets to add a creative and unique touch to your home. This shop is well-known in the country’s carpet trade and offers a variety of carpet styles such as kilim, techemet, and sumek. Visitors to this city should not miss the opportunity to visit this shop.
4. Local Food Products
There are local market shops in Almaty, Kazakhstan that have markets and specialty stores that sell a variety of local food products. These products are great for taking home. Some popular items include dried fruits, nuts, honey, and traditional Kazakh sweets like chak-chak and baursak. These treats are not only delicious but also a great way to share the flavours of Kazakhstan with friends and family.
5. Tengri Umai Gallery
This is one of the earliest private galleries to open after Kazakhstan gained independence. The gallery is well-known for its Kazakh arts and the skillful works of local artists, which are available at reasonable prices. The artworks are based on Soviet history and the works of Soviet artists. You can explore various styles of artwork at Tengri Umai gallery.
Dining and Relaxation
1. Cafes and Restaurants
In Almaty, there are lots of different cafes and restaurants that serve local and international food. After a busy day of shopping, you can relax at one of the many places to eat. You can try traditional Kazakh foods like beshbarmak (boiled meat with noodles) or manty (steamed dumplings) for a real local dining experience. Or you can choose from a variety of international foods, including Italian, Japanese, American, and Middle Eastern cuisine.
2. Tea Houses
Kazakh people love tea, and in Almaty, there are cosy tea houses where you can relax and enjoy traditional Kazakh tea with sweets and pastries. It’s a great way to take a break and experience the local atmosphere.
Practical Tips for Shopping in Almaty
1. Currency and Payments
In Kazakhstan, the official currency is the tenge (KZT). You can use major credit cards in malls and larger stores, but it’s best to have some cash for smaller shops and markets. You can easily find ATMs throughout the city to withdraw cash.
2. Language
In Kazakhstan, Kazakh and Russian are the official languages. In Almaty, many people speak Russian, and English is also commonly used, especially in tourist areas and among younger people. Learning a few basic phrases in Kazakh or Russian can make your shopping experience better and help you connect with the locals.
3. Bargaining
When you’re at places like the Green Bazaar or buying from street vendors, it’s okay to try and negotiate for a better price. Just be polite and friendly when you do. In stores with set prices, there’s no need to bargain, so be sure to respect the prices displayed.
4. Shopping Hours
Most malls and stores in Almaty are open from 10 AM to 10 PM, seven days a week. The Green Bazaar and other markets open earlier in the morning and close by late afternoon. It’s a good idea to check the specific hours of operation for the places you plan to visit.
5. Safety and Etiquette
When in Almaty, it’s generally safe, but it’s important to take common-sense precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas, and be aware of your surroundings. When shopping, be respectful and patient with vendors and staff. A friendly attitude can make your shopping experience more enjoyable.
Conclusion
Almaty shopping combines modern convenience and traditional charm. You can shop at luxurious malls like Esentai and Dostyk Plaza or visit the bustling Green Bazaar and quaint Arbat Street. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, unique souvenirs, or local delicacies, Almaty has something for every taste and budget. Use the tips and recommendations in this guide to explore Almaty’s vibrant shopping scene and bring back great memories and treasures from your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
Q:Are there any unique souvenirs or handicrafts to buy in Almaty?
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Q:What is the best time to go shopping in Almaty?
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Q:Are there any shopping malls or department stores in Almaty?
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Q:What are some popular items to buy while shopping in Almaty?
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