Kazakhstan
Almaty, set against a mountain backdrop, has striking scenery, while Astana feels like a modern new city full of contemporary architecture. The country is so vast that traveling between cities takes quite a while.
- Currency
- KZT
Kazakhstan currency guide — today's rate & payment tips
Visa and entry rules change often. Check your government's travel advisory or the local embassy before you go.
Average temperature by month
Based on Astana · 5-year average
Choose a city
Map and place data © OpenStreetMap contributors
Astana
Astana became the capital of Kazakhstan in 1997, replacing Almaty. Having changed its name several times over the years, it's a city whose history is fascinating to trace.
28 sights 9 guides Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ)
Almaty
Kazakhstan's largest city, set against the stunning backdrop of the Tian Shan mountains. As the country's cultural and industrial hub, it offers plenty to see and do.
45 sights 9 guides Almaty International Airport (ALA)
Shymkent
Kazakhstan's third-largest city sits at a key crossroads of transport routes. With an international airport, it's a convenient stop between Almaty and Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
4 sights 9 guides Shymkent International Airport
Karaganda
The capital of Kazakhstan's Karaganda Region, this city grew alongside its coal industry. Its distinct industrial atmosphere reveals a different side of Kazakhstan.
11 sights 9 guides Sary-Arka Airport (KGF)
Baikonur
A unique city located in Kazakhstan but leased and operated by Russia. Built to support the nearby space launch facility, it's fascinating for travelers interested in space exploration.
3 sights 9 guides Krayniy Airport (BXY)
Top sights in Kazakhstan
Temples & religious sites
Nur-Astana Mosque
Nur-Astana Mosque is a mosque in Astana, Kazakhstan, and the third-largest in Central Asia. Its 40-meter main dome and 63-meter minarets carry symbolic meaning tied to the life of the Prophet Muhammad.
Views & landmarks
Bayterek
Baiterek is an observation tower and monument in Astana, regarded as the symbol and landmark of the capital. From the viewing deck, you can take in a sweeping view of the city.
Attraction
Palace of Peace and Reconciliation
The Palace of Peace and Reconciliation is a 62-meter pyramid-shaped building in Astana, designed by Foster + Partners. It serves as a venue for interfaith cultural events and stands out for its striking architecture.
Culture & venues
Astana Opera
Astana Opera is an opera house in Astana, Kazakhstan. Established by presidential decree, it stages a wide variety of opera performances.
Temples & religious sites
Khazret Sultan Mosque
A mosque in Astana, Kazakhstan, it's a great spot to explore both the interior and exterior of the prayer hall.
Temples & religious sites
Ascension Cathedral
This Russian Orthodox cathedral stands in Panfilov Park in Almaty and was built entirely of wood without a single nail. As one of the tallest wooden cathedrals in the world, it's a wonderful place to admire its unique architecture.
Museums & galleries
Central State Museum of Kazakhstan
The largest museum in Almaty and one of the leading museums in Central Asia. Its extensive size allows visitors to explore a wide range of collections at a relaxed pace.
Temples & religious sites
Central Mosque (Almaty)
This is one of the largest mosques in Kazakhstan, with room for up to 7,000 worshippers at once. It was rebuilt on the site of an earlier mosque, originally built in 1890, that was destroyed by fire.
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Local data
Get an eSIM for Kazakhstan before you go
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