Astana is a futuristic, master-planned capital rising from the Kazakh steppe, defined by its bold, avant-garde architecture and wide, sweeping boulevards. It is a city of contrasts where nomadic heritage meets high-tech ambition, best experienced during the warmer months from May to September to avoid the extreme winter winds.
Top Things to Do in Astana
Tap an attraction to look it up on TripAdvisor.
Getting Around Astana
From the Airport
Rideshare. The Yandex Go app is the primary and most reliable way to get from Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport to the city center, usually costing around 3000-5000 KZT. Bus. Public bus routes 10 and 12 connect the airport to the city center; they are very affordable but take significantly longer than a car.
Once You're There
Rideshare. Yandex Go is the standard for getting around; it is incredibly efficient, affordable, and widely used by both locals and visitors. Walking. While the city center is walkable, distances between major landmarks are vast, so walking is best done within specific districts rather than across the whole city.
Where to Stay in Astana
Hotel picks for Astana are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Astana
Line Brew★ 4.8 (133)4CRW+7FV, Astana 020000, KazakhstanFamous for its hearty steaks and extensive craft beer selection, it offers a sophisticated, club-like atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Kitchen★ 4.7 (663)ЖК, Северное Сияние, Достық көшесі 5, Астана 010000, KazakhstanA favorite among locals for its diverse international menu and consistently high-quality service, perfect for a relaxed dinner.
Qazaq Gourmet★ 4.7 (404)Prospekt Mangilik Yel. 29, Astana 020000, KazakhstanAn elevated take on regional cuisine that focuses on high-quality local ingredients and beautiful presentation.
Rafe★ 4.6 (1,067)Azerbaijan Mambetov St 16, Astana 010000, KazakhstanA cozy, long-standing neighborhood favorite known for its reliable comfort food and welcoming, casual vibe.
Arba Wine Bar★ 4.6 (171)Syganak St 39/1, Astana 020000, KazakhstanA must-visit for oenophiles looking to taste award-winning, locally produced Kazakh wines in a chic, intimate environment.
Mokki★ 4.5 (197)Dostyq St 16, Astana 010016, KazakhstanThis stylish cafe is the go-to destination for artisanal coffee and modern European-style brunch dishes.
Del Papa★ 4.4 (542)Qabanbay Batyr Ave 34, Astana 010000, KazakhstanA highly-rated Italian eatery that offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with excellent handmade pasta.
Satti★ 4.4 (338)Prospekt Mangilik Yel. 16, Astana 010000, KazakhstanThis is the premier spot to sample authentic Kazakh national dishes like beshbarmak in a traditional, upscale setting.
Selfie Astana★ 4.4 (306)отель The Ritz-Carlton, 18 этаж, Dostyq St 16, Astana 020000, KazakhstanLocated on the top floor of a skyscraper, it provides stunning panoramic views of the city skyline alongside high-end fusion cuisine.
3 Days in Astana
Iconic Architecture & The Left Bank
Morning. Start your journey at the Bayterek Tower, the golden-crowned symbol of the city, and take the elevator to the observation deck for a 360-degree view of the master-planned layout. After descending, walk through the surrounding Nurzhol Boulevard, a pedestrian-friendly axis that showcases the city's most impressive modern buildings. Spend about an hour admiring the unique shapes of the nearby government offices before heading over to the Presidential Center of Kazakhstan to learn about the nation's political history. Arrive early to beat the tour groups, and make sure to bring a camera for the stunning architectural details along the way. Your walk will naturally lead you toward the administrative heart of the city, providing a perfect introduction to the scale of Astana.
Afternoon. Continue your exploration by heading to the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center, an enormous transparent tent that houses an indoor beach, shopping malls, and a miniature golf course. It is an engineering marvel designed by Norman Foster, and you can easily spend a few hours wandering through its climate-controlled levels. Afterward, walk toward the nearby Astana Opera to appreciate its neoclassical design, which stands in stark contrast to the surrounding futuristic steel structures. If time permits, grab a coffee at a nearby kiosk and watch the city bustle. This area is the center of modern Astana's social life, so expect plenty of activity and vibrant energy as you navigate the wide, pristine sidewalks.
Evening. Conclude your first day by strolling along the banks of the Ishim River, which offers a peaceful atmosphere as the city lights begin to flicker on. Rent a boat or walk across the bridges to get a different perspective of the skyline, particularly the way the buildings reflect off the water at dusk. Head toward a restaurant in the nearby business district to enjoy a fine dinner while watching the city transition into the night. The evening air here is crisp, so bring a light jacket even in summer. End your night with a visit to the illuminated Nur-Astana Mosque, which glows beautifully against the dark sky, providing a serene conclusion to your first day.
Culture, History & The Old City
Morning. Begin your second day by diving into the cultural depth of the country at the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which houses a massive collection of artifacts ranging from ancient Scythian gold to modern history. Spend at least two hours here, as the museum is vast and meticulously curated, offering essential context for your trip. Afterward, take a short taxi ride to the nearby Hazrat Sultan Mosque, one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in Central Asia. Its white marble facade and intricate blue-tiled domes are breathtaking, especially in the morning light. Be sure to dress modestly, as this is an active place of worship, and enjoy the quiet, respectful atmosphere of the courtyards.
Afternoon. Head toward the Atameken Ethno-Memorial Complex, an open-air museum that features a scale model of the entire country, including its diverse landscapes and major landmarks. It is a fantastic way to visualize the scale of Kazakhstan and get inspiration for future travels across the region. After exploring the miniature geography, make your way to the older part of the city to see how Astana has evolved over the decades. Visit a local bazaar if you want to experience the sights and smells of fresh produce and traditional spices. This area provides a more authentic, lived-in feel compared to the polished glass towers of the Left Bank, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of local residents.
Evening. Spend your final evening of the day relaxing in Central Park, a lush green space that serves as the city's lungs. It is a popular spot for locals to walk, cycle, and enjoy the outdoors, making it perfect for people-watching. Find a bench near the fountains or take a leisurely stroll through the tree-lined paths. For dinner, head to a nearby traditional restaurant to sample authentic Kazakh cuisine, focusing on meat-heavy dishes that are central to the culture. The atmosphere here is much more relaxed than the tourist centers, allowing you to wind down after a day of sightseeing. Finish your evening with a glass of local wine or a traditional tea service.
Leisure, Parks & Modern Vistas
Morning. Dedicate your final morning to the quieter side of the city by visiting the riverside parks that line the Ishim River. These areas are beautifully landscaped and offer a calm escape from the bustling boulevards of the city center. Walk the paths, observe the local fishermen, and enjoy the fresh air as you reflect on your time in Astana. If you are interested in photography, the morning light provides excellent opportunities for capturing the juxtaposition of the river against the modern skyline in the distance. Stop at a riverside cafe for a slow breakfast, enjoying the view of the water and the city waking up at its own pace.
Afternoon. Spend your afternoon exploring the various public squares that dot the city, such as the area around the Ak Orda Presidential Palace. While you cannot enter the palace itself, the exterior architecture is imposing and serves as a great photo opportunity. Afterward, visit one of the modern art galleries or cultural centers that have sprouted up in the newer districts. These spaces often host temporary exhibitions that showcase the work of contemporary Kazakh artists, providing a unique perspective on the country's evolving identity. Take your time to browse the local boutiques and souvenir shops in the surrounding area to find unique crafts to take home.
Evening. For your final evening, treat yourself to a high-end dining experience at one of the city's top-rated restaurants, perhaps one with a view of the illuminated skyline. Astana truly comes alive at night when the monuments are lit up in vibrant colors, creating a surreal and magical environment. Take a final walk through the city center to see the Bayterek Tower glowing in the distance one last time. It is a perfect moment to soak in the unique blend of ambition and tradition that defines the Kazakh capital. End your trip with a visit to a local lounge for a nightcap, reflecting on the incredible growth and energy of this city on the steppe.