21 Things to Do in Almaty: Top Attractions and Activities

But Almaty itself is a beautiful, exciting, and interesting place to visit that deserves more attention. There are many great things to do in Almaty that can keep you busy for at least a few days. The city can also be a great base for exploring the stunning southern Kazakhstan. You can explore our diverse Almaty tour packages to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the destination.

With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and modern attractions, Almaty offers a variety of experiences for every kind of traveller. Here are 15 things to do in Almaty that show the best this city has to offer.

Best Things To Do In Almaty

1. Ascend Kok-Tobe Hill

Upon arrival at the summit, a world of wonder awaits. Delight in the enchanting sights of a charming zoo, a lively amusement park, and a one-of-a-kind monument paying tribute to The Beatles – the one and only in existence showcasing all four members of the iconic band. To top it all off, savor the flavours of traditional Kazakh cuisine at the summit’s restaurant while being captivated by the awe-inspiring panoramas.

2. Explore the Green Bazaar

The main hall is divided into sections with signs in Russian and symbols indicating what is sold in each area. In addition to common items like fruits, vegetables, cheese, spices, and meat, you can also find products typical of Central Asia, such as kumys (fermented dairy products made from mare’s milk) and horse meat. Other parts of the bazaar offer clothes, furniture, and other items, but the food hall is a must-visit. Green Bazaar is undoubtedly one of the top Almaty tourist attractions and visiting this place is one of the top things to do in Almaty.

3. Stroll Through The Parks

If you’re up for a little adventure, make your way to the breathtaking First President’s Park, named after Nursultan Nazarbayev. This relatively new addition to the city, opened in July 2010, is a true gem. Marvel at the stunning colonnade, vibrant flower arrangements, and, most importantly, the awe-inspiring views of the majestic mountains in the backdrop. 

4. Explore The Museums

And that’s not all – Almaty has around 30 museums to explore, including the Musical Instruments of Kazakhstan Museum, Kasteyev Museum of Fine Arts, and Tselliny Contemporary Arts Center.

5. Wander Through the Almaty Botanical Garden

6. Experience Medeu and Shymbulak

After a thrilling cable car ride, you’ll arrive at Shymbulak, Almaty’s top-notch ski resort. In the winter, shred the slopes with fantastic skiing and snowboarding, and in the summer, conquer hiking and mountain biking trails. These places are counted as some of the top places to go in Almaty because of the beauty and the thrill it offers.

7. Photography at the Big Almaty Lake

8. Tour the Almaty Opera House

9. Discover the Arasan Baths

10. Hike in the Ile-Alatau National Park

11. Experience Almaty’s Nightlife

12. Check out the Government Buildings

13. Marvel at beautiful Zenkov Cathedral

14. Visit the Central Mosque

This architectural marvel is a testament to Islamic artistry and grandeur. Following the unfortunate burning down of the old mosque, the Central Mosque was built and opened to the public in 1999. It stands as one of the largest mosques in Kazakhstan, with a capacity to accommodate up to 7,000 worshippers. Just make sure to dress modestly, covering your head, arms, and legs.

15. Take a Walk in Zhibek Zholy Pedestrian Street

16. Learn at the Museum of Kazakh Musical Instruments

17. Get knowledge about nomadic traditions

18. Enjoy the Falcon Hunting Festival

One notable establishment at the heart of this tradition is the Sunkar Nursery, situated near Almaty in the Alma-Arasan Gorge. Here, a diverse array of hunting birds is expertly cared for and trained. The majestic art of eagle hunting, which has deep historical roots, particularly thrives in the central and northern regions of Kazakhstan, adding to the rich tapestry of the country’s hunting culture.

19. Explore the best places to eat

• Green Bazaar – The Green Bazaar is a lively market in the city centre that’s perfect for food enthusiasts. You can enjoy a variety of traditional Kazakh dishes like boiled meat with pasta, steamed dumplings, freshly baked bread, pastries, and fresh fruits from the many food stalls and eateries. It’s a great way to experience local food culture and try authentic Kazakh cuisine.
• Kaganat – If you’re looking for Central Asian flavours in a fancy setting, visit Kaganat. This high-end restaurant specialises in Kazakh and Uzbek cuisine. They serve a variety of dishes made with top-quality ingredients and prepared with care. Enjoy tasty kebabs, flavorful pilaf, hearty soups, and delicious desserts. The restaurant’s classy atmosphere and attentive service make for a memorable dining experience, ideal for special occasions or a sophisticated meal.
• Daredzhani – If you’re in the mood for Georgian food, head to Daredzhani. This cosy restaurant in Almaty serves up a menu packed with Georgian favourites like cheese-filled bread, dumplings, and a variety of meat and vegetable dishes. The friendly staff and inviting atmosphere make dining here a pleasure. And be sure to try some traditional Georgian wine with your meal.

20. Engage in some shopping

• Mega Park – Mega Park in Almaty is a modern shopping centre with many stores, including fashion, electronics, and home goods. The mall also offers entertainment, food options, and play areas, making it a popular choice for shoppers and those looking for leisure activities.
• Green Bazaar – Green Bazaar is in the middle of Almaty. It’s a busy market with lots of things to buy. You can find fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, meats, dairy products, and traditional Kazakh crafts. The market is great for shopping. There are colourful stalls to see, local food to try, and a lively atmosphere to enjoy.
• Arbat – Arbat is a street where you can walk without cars. There are stores, cafes, restaurants, and small shops. The stores sell both items from abroad and from Russia. Some shops have very new and cool clothes, bags, and shoes. You can find interesting things and take a relaxed walk on this nice street.

21. Visit places near Almaty

Almaty is a city that invites exploration with its rich history, cultural diversity, and beautiful natural landscapes. You can delve into its cultural institutions, enjoy its natural beauty, or experience its modern attractions. Almaty promises a memorable and enriching travel experience through these 21 activities, offering a unique glimpse into the soul of this dynamic city. It’s a must-visit destination in Central Asia.