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Astana (Nur-Sultan)
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🇰🇿 Kazakhstan

Astana (Nur-Sultan)

Futuristic skyline on the Kazakh steppe — Astana (officially Nur-Sultan) is Kazakhstan’s gleaming capital where bold modern architecture meets Central Asian hospitality, making it an intriguing stop for curious travelers. The city’s wide boulevards, striking monuments and growing cultural scene offer a compact, walkable introduction to contemporary Kazakhstan.

▶ Video guide

Astana (Nur-Sultan) in 60 seconds

A cinematic tour of the top sights, food and local tips. Get your own AI voice guide and a trip planned just for you in the Tripmi app.

  • 📍Top places to visit: Bayterek Tower, Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, Hazret Sultan Mosque
  • 🍽️What to eat: Beshbarmak, Kazy, Manty
  • 🗓️Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn (May–September) for mild weather and outdoor…

Good to know

Best time to visit
Late spring to early autumn (May–September) for mild weather and outdoor events; winter is extremely cold but offers dramatic snowy cityscapes. Peak festivals and comfortable walking conditions are in June–September.
Getting around
The city center is compact and easy to explore on foot; taxis and ride-hailing apps (Yandex.Taxi, inDriver) are inexpensive, and there’s a limited bus/tram network for longer trips. Expect long distances between some attractions due to broad avenues.
Currency
Kazakhstani tenge (KZT) — carry cash for small markets and tips, but cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants.
Language
Kazakh and Russian are the main languages; English is common in hotels, tourist sites and among younger people but less so with older locals.
Safety
Astana is generally safe for tourists, with low violent crime; use normal precautions against petty theft in crowded areas.
Daily budget
US$50–150/day (budget to midrange comfort)
💶 Travel money in Astana (Nur-Sultan)Currency, cards vs cash, costs & tipping in Astana (Nur-Sultan)
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Top places to visit

1Viewpoint

Bayterek Tower

Iconic 97-meter tower symbolizing Kazakhstan’s independence with an observation deck offering panoramic city views and a gilded 'egg' to photograph.

2Landmark

Palace of Peace and Reconciliation

A striking pyramid designed by Norman Foster hosting conferences, concerts and a 1,500-seat opera hall beneath a soaring glass apex.

3Temple

Hazret Sultan Mosque

One of Central Asia’s largest modern mosques with ornate domes and a luminous interior open to visitors outside prayer times.

4Shopping

Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center

A tent-shaped, climate-controlled mall designed by Foster, housing shops, indoor beaches, cinemas and restaurants under a transparent canopy.

5Museum

National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Comprehensive exhibitions on Kazakh history, culture and independence in a modern building with engaging displays and artifacts.

6Nightlife

Astana Opera

Elegant European-style opera and ballet house offering major productions and impressive interior architecture; book tickets in advance.

7Landmark

Independence Square (Kazakh Eli Monument)

A ceremonial plaza anchored by the Kazakh Eli monument and governmental buildings, often used for national events and parades.

8Temple

Nur-Astana Mosque

Contemporary mosque near the Ishim River with graceful minarets and accessible visitor areas explaining Islamic traditions.

9Park

Ishim River Embankment

Pleasant riverside promenade for walking, cycling and skyline views, with cafes and boat rides in summer.

10Activity

Expo 2017 Site (EXPO Park)

Former expo grounds with futuristic pavilions and outdoor exhibitions reflecting green energy themes — good for architecture fans.

11Museum

Atameken Ethno-Memorial Complex

Outdoor miniature park displaying detailed scale models of Kazakhstan’s landmarks — handy to get a quick sense of the country.

12Park

Central City Park (Gorky Park)

Family-friendly green space with rides, playgrounds and cafes, popular in summer for picnics and festivals.

13Viewpoint

Line of Happiness (Greenbelt and Public Art)

A stretch of landscaped boulevards and public art linking major sights, ideal for leisurely walks and photos of Astana’s skyline.

14Activity

Duman Entertainment Center Aquarium

Indoor aquarium and entertainment complex suitable for families, showcasing marine life and interactive exhibits.

15Market

Zelyony Bazaar (Green Bazaar)

Bustling market offering fresh produce, local dairy, dried fruits, spices and an authentic look at everyday Kazakh shopping.

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Things to do

Climb Bayterek Tower

Take the elevator to the observation platform for sweeping views and a photo with the golden sphere.

Attend a performance at Astana Opera

Experience Kazakh and international opera or ballet in an opulent hall with excellent acoustics.

Stroll the Ishim River embankment

Walk or cycle along the river to see modern architecture and riverside cafes, especially pleasant at sunset.

Visit the National Museum

Spend a few hours exploring exhibits on Kazakh history, steppe culture and independence artifacts.

Explore the Expo 2017 pavilions

Discover futuristic structures and exhibitions focused on sustainability and innovation.

Shop and sample at Zelyony Bazaar

Taste local cheeses, breads and dried fruits while mingling with locals at the central market.

Where to stay

Yesil District (city center)

Best for first-time visitors — close to Bayterek, museums, government buildings and many hotels.

Left Bank (North) near Expo

Futuristic area with modern architecture and easier access to EXPO sites and riverside parks.

Downtown Avenue (Republic Avenue)

Grand boulevard with monuments, theaters and shopping — lively and central for culture and dining.

Saryarka Residential Area

Quieter neighborhood offering more affordable accommodations and a glimpse of local life away from tourist spots.

What to eat

Beshbarmak

Kazakhstan’s national dish of boiled meat (usually lamb or horse) served over wide noodles — hearty and traditional.

Kazy

Smoked horse-meat sausage, a prized festive delicacy often served sliced as an appetizer.

Manty

Large steamed dumplings filled with meat and onions, popular across Central Asia and widely available in Astana.

Shashlik

Skewered grilled meat, commonly lamb or beef, served with raw onion and flatbread from street vendors and restaurants.

Baursak

Deep-fried dough balls often served with tea or as a side at celebrations — light and slightly sweet.

Kumis (fermented mare’s milk)

Traditional slightly sour, mildly alcoholic dairy drink; try it for an authentic nomadic flavor.

Day trips

Burabay National Park (Borovoe)

Scenic pine forests, lakes and rock formations about 3–4 hours drive north, ideal for hiking and swimming in summer.

Korgalzhyn State Nature Reserve

Important wetland about 2–3 hours southwest, famed for migratory birds and large flamingo colonies in season.

Kokshetau

Historic regional city and gateway to lakes and forests, offering rural Kazakh landscapes within a few hours’ drive.

Insider tips

  • Carry a printed or screenshot map — GPS works but some addresses are easier with visuals.
  • Dress warmly and in layers outside summer — winters can drop well below freezing.
  • Use Yandex.Taxi or inDriver for reliable, metered rides and confirm the fare when possible.
  • Learn a few Russian phrases (hello, thank you) — they go a long way with locals.
  • ATMs are widely available but bring cash to markets and smaller eateries.
  • Check prayer times and modesty rules before visiting mosques; many allow non-Muslim visitors outside prayer hours.

Traveler reviews

4.8
★★★★★
5 traveler reviews
L
Liam O.
Ireland
★★★★★
last month

The futuristic skyline around Bayterek is unforgettable at sunset — loved wandering between modern architecture and trying good kebabs at a nearby stall.

A
Ananya R.
India
★★★★★
2 weeks ago

People were genuinely helpful when I got confused with tram times, and the local cafes serve surprisingly excellent tea and pastries for a bargain.

C
Carlos M.
Spain
★★★★★
March 2026

I was impressed by the clean, wide promenades along the Ishim River and the modern museums — great value for museums compared with other European capitals.

Y
Yulia S.
Russia
★★★★☆
last winter

Beautiful monuments like the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, friendly locals, but be ready for very cold nights and slightly limited vegetarian choices.

M
Marcus T.
USA
★★★★★
last month

Nighttime city lights and the futuristic vibe made every walk feel cinematic; loved a late dinner of shashlik and fresh salads after museum hopping.

Good to know — FAQ

Do I need a visa to visit Astana (Nur-Sultan)?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality; many countries enjoy visa-free entry for short stays, but check Kazakhstan’s official visa site or your embassy for current rules before travel.
How do I get from Nur-Sultan Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport to the city?
Options include airport taxis, official shuttle buses and pre-booked transfers; taxis take about 20–40 minutes depending on traffic and should use the meter or an app.
Is tipping expected in Kazakhstan?
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory — 5–10% in restaurants is common if service was good, and rounding up is fine for taxis.
Can I use credit cards everywhere?
Major hotels, restaurants and shops accept cards, but carry cash for markets, small cafes and rural excursions where card machines may be unavailable.

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