Astana
1 / 10

Astana

4.6
·491k reviews·Kuching, Malaysia

Astana, Kazakhstan's capital, is a city of striking futuristic architecture and grand boulevards, offering a glimpse into a modern vision of urban des...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium
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Astana

Astana

Best Time

Summer mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Astana, Kazakhstan's capital, is a city of striking futuristic architecture and grand boulevards, offering a glimpse into a modern vision of urban design.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Astana is a city of the future, with stunning modern architecture that will leave you in awe."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚖 Ride-Sharing is Key

Use ride-sharing apps like Yandex Go for affordable and convenient transport around the city.

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

Astana is a city of grand avenues; pack comfortable shoes for extensive walking.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bayterek Tower

Bayterek Tower

Nurzhol Boulevard

Symbol of Astana, offering panoramic city views from its golden orb. A must-see for any visitor.

Hazret Sultan Mosque

Hazret Sultan Mosque

Near Independence Palace

The largest mosque in Central Asia, an architectural masterpiece with stunning interiors. Respectful attire is required.

Palace of Peace and Reconciliation

Palace of Peace and Reconciliation

Dostyk Street

A unique pyramid-shaped structure symbolizing religious harmony and hosting cultural events.

Nurzhol Boulevard

Nurzhol Boulevard

City Center

Astana's grand central avenue, lined with futuristic buildings and monuments. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Astana's Modern Marvels

Astana's futuristic architecture demands comfortable shoes for exploring its vast avenues. Be prepared for temperature swings; layers are key. Consider a local SIM for easy navigation and ride-sharing apps, which are highly recommended for getting around efficiently.

Embrace the Grandeur

Astana's iconic landmarks, like the Bayterek Tower and the Grand Mosque, are best experienced with ample time. Book tickets for attractions in advance if possible, especially during peak seasons, to avoid queues and make the most of your visit.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday evenings
Why
City lights and fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late Spring/Early Autumn
Why
Mild temperatures, fewer tourists
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#астана #astanakazakhstan #astana
@kzh.dil
83.2K likes • 665.7K views

🚖 Ride-Sharing is Key

Use ride-sharing apps like Yandex Go for affordable and convenient transport around the city. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

Astana is a city of grand avenues; pack comfortable shoes for extensive walking. TikTok

Astana in her night dress (perezaliv cuz instagram ate the quality last time lol) #astana #астана
@tarihsiz_adam
42.6K likes • 363.8K views
This is Astana🇰🇿 Feel the vibe🌃
talashin
67.4K likes • 1.1M views

🧥 Dress in Layers

Temperatures can fluctuate significantly. Pack layers to adapt to changing weather conditions. TikTok

🕌 Mosque Etiquette

When visiting mosques, dress modestly. Women should cover their heads, and both men and women should wear long sleeves and pants. TikTok

📍Astana. Kazakhstan🇰🇿 Астананың қай жағалауы ұнайды?
bydastann
908.3K likes • 25.4M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚖 Ride-Sharing is Key

Use ride-sharing apps like Yandex Go for affordable and convenient transport around the city. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

Astana is a city of grand avenues; pack comfortable shoes for extensive walking. TikTok

🧥 Dress in Layers

Temperatures can fluctuate significantly. Pack layers to adapt to changing weather conditions. TikTok

🕌 Mosque Etiquette

When visiting mosques, dress modestly. Women should cover their heads, and both men and women should wear long sleeves and pants. TikTok

💰 Budget-Friendly Options

It's possible to explore Astana on a budget, with many attractions and food options being quite affordable. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by Astana's futuristic architecture and grand scale, often describing it as a city of the future. The cleanliness and modern infrastructure are frequently praised, though some find it lacks a traditional historical charm. The city's unique landmarks and impressive mosques are highlights for many.

What People Like

Futuristic architecture
Clean and modern city
Impressive landmarks

What People Dislike

Can feel sterile
Lacks historical depth

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most convenient way is by taxi or ride-sharing app, which takes about 30-40 minutes. Buses are also available but can be slower. TikTok

While some central areas are walkable, Astana is a sprawling city. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring specific districts, but public transport or ride-sharing is best for longer distances. TikTok

Yandex Go is widely used and recommended for taxis and ride-sharing in Astana. TikTok

Yes, Astana has a bus system, but it can be less efficient than ride-sharing for tourists. Check local apps for routes and schedules. TikTok

Many signs in tourist areas have English translations, and ride-sharing apps are user-friendly. Learning a few basic Russian phrases can be helpful. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Most major attractions like the Bayterek Tower and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation require tickets. It's advisable to check their official websites for current pricing and booking information. TikTok

The Hazret Sultan Mosque is generally open daily from morning until evening, but it's best to verify specific prayer times and visitor hours online. TikTokInstagram

Nurzhol Boulevard itself is a public space and free to access. However, specific attractions along the boulevard may have entrance fees. Instagram

Yes, the Baiterek Tower is often open in the evenings, offering a different perspective of the city lights. Check their official hours for specific timings. TikTok

Many of Astana's architectural wonders, like the exterior of the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation and walking along Nurzhol Boulevard, are free to admire. Instagram+1

🎫 🏙️ Onsite Experience

For stunning panoramic views, visit during daylight hours. For a magical city lights experience, consider an evening visit. TikTok

Modest clothing is essential. Women should cover their hair, and both men and women should wear long sleeves and trousers or skirts that cover the knees. TikTok

Yes, guided tours are available for many of Astana's landmarks, offering deeper insights into their history and architecture. TikTok

Astana experiences extreme continental climate with very cold winters and hot summers. Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures. TikTok

Astana is generally considered a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. Standard travel precautions are advised. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Don't miss trying traditional Kazakh dishes like Beshbarmak (horse meat with noodles), Kazy (horse sausage), and Baursaki (fried dough balls). TikTok

While traditional Kazakh cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, especially in more modern establishments. TikTok

You can find affordable meals for around 10 EUR (approx. 4900 Tenge) per day if you choose local eateries and street food. TikTok

Explore local markets and smaller cafes away from the main tourist hubs for authentic and budget-friendly meals. TikTok

Tipping is not as customary as in some Western countries, but a small tip (5-10%) for excellent service is appreciated. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Bayterek Tower, Hazret Sultan Mosque, Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, and the futuristic architecture along Nurzhol Boulevard are highly photogenic. TikTokInstagram

Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) offers beautiful light for capturing the city's modern architecture. Night shots of the illuminated landmarks are also stunning. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed in most public areas. However, inside religious sites like mosques, it's best to be discreet and respectful. TikTok

Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially around government buildings and airports. Always check local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grand architecture, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details. A tripod is helpful for night photography. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Astana offers a unique blend of modern attractions that can captivate younger visitors. The Bayterek Tower provides a fun experience with its interactive elements and city views. The Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center is a massive tent-like structure with shops, restaurants, and even an indoor beach, offering a great escape, especially during colder months. TikTok

Consider visiting the Duman Entertainment Center, which features an oceanarium and a dolphinarium, providing engaging activities for children. While the city's architecture is impressive, focus on attractions that offer interactive elements or open spaces for kids to explore. Pack snacks and drinks, as exploring can be tiring for little ones. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Astana can be explored on a shoestring budget by prioritizing affordable transportation and local eateries. Utilize ride-sharing apps like Yandex Go for cost-effective travel between attractions. TikTok+1

For dining, seek out local canteens and markets for authentic and inexpensive meals. Many of the city's most impressive architectural sights, like Nurzhol Boulevard and the exteriors of major buildings, are free to admire, offering plenty of sightseeing opportunities without an entry fee. Instagram+1

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Astana is a dream destination for photographers, with its futuristic architecture and grand boulevards. The Bayterek Tower at sunset or sunrise offers spectacular views and light. The Hazret Sultan Mosque provides stunning opportunities for capturing intricate details and scale, especially during the golden hour. TikTok+1

Don't miss exploring Nurzhol Boulevard for its symmetrical vistas and unique building designs. Consider visiting at different times of day to capture the city's transformation from daylight to its dazzling nighttime illumination. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Astana's Futuristic Architecture

Astana is renowned for its striking futuristic architecture, a testament to its status as a planned capital city. Designed by world-class architects, the city boasts a collection of unique and avant-garde structures that create a visually stunning urban landscape. From the iconic Bayterek Tower, symbolizing a mythical bird's egg, to the pyramid-shaped Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, each building tells a story of Kazakhstan's aspirations and cultural identity. TikTokInstagram

Walking along Nurzhol Boulevard, the city's grand central avenue, you'll be surrounded by these architectural marvels. The Astana Opera House, the National Museum of Kazakhstan, and the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center are just a few more examples of the city's bold design. Many visitors are captivated by the sheer scale and innovative forms, making it a photographer's paradise. Instagram

Experiencing Astana's architecture is like stepping into a vision of the future. The city's commitment to modern design is evident everywhere, from its sleek skyscrapers to its expansive public spaces. It's a place where art, engineering, and urban planning converge to create a truly unforgettable cityscape. Instagram

Exploring Astana's Religious Sites

Astana is home to impressive religious landmarks, most notably the Hazret Sultan Mosque, which stands as the largest mosque in Central Asia. This magnificent structure, inaugurated in 2022, is an architectural marvel with intricate details and a serene atmosphere. Visitors, regardless of their faith, are often moved by its grandeur and the sense of peace it emanates. TikTokInstagram+1

When visiting the Hazret Sultan Mosque or any other religious site, it's crucial to adhere to local etiquette. This typically involves dressing modestly, with women covering their heads and both men and women wearing clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Being mindful of prayer times is also important to ensure a respectful visit. TikTok

Beyond the Hazret Sultan Mosque, Astana features other notable religious buildings and spiritual centers that reflect the country's diverse cultural tapestry. Exploring these sites offers a deeper understanding of the local heritage and the role of faith in Kazakh society. TikTok

Budget Travel in Astana

Astana can be surprisingly budget-friendly for travelers looking to explore its modern wonders without breaking the bank. As highlighted by one traveler, it's possible to manage on approximately €10 (around 4900 Tenge) per day. This involves smart choices in dining and transportation. TikTok

For affordable meals, venture beyond the main tourist strips to discover local cafes and eateries that serve traditional Kazakh cuisine at lower prices. Trying local specialties like Baursaki or simpler noodle dishes can be both delicious and economical. TikTok

When it comes to getting around, ride-sharing apps like Yandex Go are significantly cheaper than traditional taxis and offer a convenient way to navigate the city. While public buses exist, they might not always be the most time-efficient option for tourists. TikTok+1

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