A sightseeing tour or city tour of Almaty is an excellent way to get acquainted with the city, its culture, and architecture. Almaty is a city of contrasts. Historically, the area where modern Almaty now stands was once a settlement for Turkic and Mongol tribes, known as Almatu. In 1854, a military fortress called Vernoye was established there. Remnants of the fortress walls and buildings from that era—part of the cultural center of the Cossacks—can still be seen in the old part of the city. In 1921, Vernoye was renamed Alma-Ata, or later simply Almaty. Until 1997, Almaty was the capital of Kazakhstan and still carries the title of the Southern capital.
Main locations to visit:
28 Panfilov Heroes Park: Located within the square formed by Pushkin, Kazibek Bi, Kunaev, and Kaldyakov streets. Inside the park, you’ll find the Ascension Cathedral, the Eternal Flame, the Victory Monument, and the Officers’ House.
Republic Square: Situated on Satpaev Street, it features the Independence Stele and several statue installations. Across from the monument is the City Hall building, which is currently undergoing reconstruction after the January events.
Pedestrian zones on Zhibek Zholy Street (Arbat) and Panfilov Street: Recently renovated, these areas are popular with musicians due to their proximity to the Zhurgenev Academy of Arts. The streets are lined with flower beds, cafes, restaurants, benches, trees, and fountains, making it a pleasant place for a walk. Nearby, you can visit the Abay Opera and Ballet Theatre, as well as Astana Square, also known as Old Square.
Green Bazaar: The oldest market in the city, where you can buy a variety of goods—from meats, fruits, and berries to dried fruits, dairy products, Korean salads, and pickled foods. Friendly vendors offer samples of traditional Kazakh dishes, and you can also find souvenirs in national styles and sweets from the Rakhat factory.
High-altitude resort Chimbulak and Kok-Tyube Observation Hill: Popular outdoor destinations offering scenic views and leisure activities.
Tour Program
08:00
The guide will meet you at the designated location.
We begin our journey towards the mountain peaks, with one of Almaty’s most significant landmarks—Medeo Ice Rink—ahead of us.
09:00 – Medeo/Shymbulak
We ascend to a height of 3200 meters to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the glaciers and the southern capital.
12:00
Descending from the mountains, we continue our city tour.
We visit New Square and the Independence Monument, take a walk around the bas-reliefs depicting various periods of Kazakhstan’s history.
13:00
Lunch at your discretion.
You can enjoy a meal at a traditional Kazakh restaurant, or any other venue of your choice.
14:00 – Old City Center
We take a short stroll along Panfilov Street, visit the metro, and enjoy live music from local musicians.
15:00 – 28 Panfilov Heroes Park
A walk through one of the most beautiful parks in the city, with visits to the Ascension Cathedral (built without a single nail) and the Kazakh Musical Instruments Museum.
16:00 – Green Bazaar
Spices, dried fruits, delicious chocolates, and many other items await you at this vibrant market. Don’t forget to haggle!
17:30 – Kok-Tyube
Incredible evening views of the city from above. The park on Kok-Tyube Hill, complete with a cable car, a small zoo, and stunning panoramas, will leave you with unforgettable memories.
19:00 – Return to the hotel
Distance and travel time:
50 km, 2 hours
Tour duration:
10-11 hours
Season:
Available year-round
The route can be modified or extended upon your request.
Tour price: City Tour of Almaty
- From 60,000 KZT or 125 USD
- Please check the details of the pricing with our manager.
- The proposed tour price is based on a group of up to 6 people in one vehicle.
- Transfer on Buses or minivans could be proposed for the big groups
- Entrance fees for Shymbulak, Musical istruments museum, and Kok-Tyube are not included and are to be paid separately.
- Meals are optional (not included in the tour price).
Included in the tour price:
Individual transfer on a comfortable SUV up to 6 pax , guided tour program in english, water on road, entrance fees to the national parks.
Tour reservations must be made in advance.
Please place your order online.
