Discover Astana: the modern heart of Kazakhstan

Astana became the capital of Kazakhstan in 1997, replacing Almaty, and embodies the ambition of a country undergoing rapid transformation. This strategic move was intended to boost development in the north of the country and assert a new national dynamic. In just a few decades, this once modest city has been transformed into a bold metropolis with futuristic architecture, a true showcase for modern Kazakhstan.

Renamed “Nur-Sultan” in 2019 in honor of founding president Nursultan Nazarbayev, it reverted to its original name, Astana, in 2022.

Must-see places in Astana

Bayterek Tower

Erected in 2002, the 97-meter-high Bayterek Tower is a true emblem of the city of Astana, symbolizing the year the new capital was proclaimed. It embodies the history and aspirations of the Kazakh people. Its symbolic architecture evokes a majestic tree with deep roots and an imposing crown, inspired by a founding myth of Kazakhstan.

Located in the vibrant Nurzhol Boulevard district, Bayterek offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the modern skyscrapers and lush green spaces that surround it.

Khazret Sultan

Considered the largest mosque in Central Asia and a true masterpiece of contemporary Islamic architecture, Khazret Sultan fully reflects Kazakhstan's spiritual heritage while affirming its modernity. Inaugurated in 2012, it covers more than 11 hectares and can accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers, making it a major cultural and religious landmark in the capital.

Nur-Astana Mosque

The Nur-Astana Mosque, the second largest in Kazakhstan after Khazret Sultan, is both a place of worship and a cultural symbol open to all.

Built between 2002 and 2005 in the modern district of Astana, it is distinguished by its 43-meter central dome, supported by eight arches decorated with verses from the Koran, and by its four slender minarets rising to a height of 62 meters. Covering an area of 4,000 square meters, it can accommodate up to 7,000 worshippers in a setting that is both spiritual and architecturally remarkable.

Astana Central Park

Astana Central Park covers more than 100 hectares, offering a true haven of peace away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Located along Turan Avenue, it is popular for its many trees, jogging and cycling trails, and panoramic views of the Ichtim River promenade. Open all year round, the park offers a multitude of outdoor activities: swimming in summer, cross-country skiing and skating in winter, with equipment rental available in all seasons. There are also arcade games, a trampoline park, a go-kart track for children, a tree-climbing park, and a 7D cinema. In summer, an open-air amphitheater hosts cultural performances.

Don't miss the Ailand leisure center and the Atameken ethno-memorial complex, which features models of Kazakhstan's most famous tourist sites.

Khan Shatyr

Designed by world-renowned architect Norman Foster, Khan Shatyr is one of Central Asia's most iconic architectural projects.

Inaugurated in 2010 to mark the 12th anniversary of Astana as capital, this spectacular shopping center stands 150 meters tall and features a transparent dome measuring 127,000 m².

Spanning six floors, it houses shops, restaurants, beauty salons, a cinema, and unique attractions such as the city's only indoor beach and a family leisure center. A true hub of entertainment, Khan Shatyr hosts concerts, festivals, exhibitions, and children's activities throughout the year, attracting thousands of visitors.

Atyrau Bridge

The Atyrau Bridge, inaugurated in 2018, is an elegant pedestrian bridge with a futuristic design inspired by the Caspian Sea sturgeon, the emblem of the Atyrau region. Measuring 313 meters in length, it connects the central park to the Ishim promenade.

Designed according to organic architectural principles, it offers an immersive experience, day and night. Much loved by locals, in summer the bridge becomes a lively place to stroll, where families and friends gather to enjoy the warm atmosphere by the water.

How to get around Astana?

The city is fairly easy to explore on foot, and there is a bus network covering the city, with frequent services at affordable prices.

Taxis are also widely used and readily available. It is recommended to use apps such as Yandex.Taxi.

If you want to find out more about the country, you may be interested in my Kazakhstan travel guide ebook, which includes some great places to visit in Astana and 62 pages of content to help you plan your trip. You can also simply contact me.

How much should you budget for Astana?

1. Accommodation: Accommodation prices vary from $8 to $100 per night depending on whether you choose a dormitory or a star-rated hotel, while the average price for renting an apartment is around $800 per month in the city center.
2. ‍Food: Eating in inexpensive restaurants costs around $5 to $10 per meal. Meals in more refined cafés can cost up to €20-30.
3. ‍Transportation: Public transportation tickets cost between €0.30 and €0.50. Taxis are also affordable, with starting rates around €1.‍
4. Groceries: Food prices are reasonable, on average 46% cheaper than in France.‍
5. Leisure: Going to the cinema costs around 3 to 5 euros, and leisure activities such as sports and museums are also affordable.

Your budget will therefore depend on the length of your stay and your habits. But on average, a budget traveler can expect to spend between 50 and 80 euros per day, including accommodation, meals, transportation, and activities.

When to visit Astana?

The best months to visit Astana are May, when the city is adorned with the bright colors of blossoming flowers, and September, when temperatures are particularly pleasant.

Summer remains very hot, with averages of 30°C in July, but there are many activities to help you cool off. The many fountains create a pleasant microclimate in the summer heat, softening the natural dryness of the air.

Winter, on the other hand, is harsh but enchanting: the city is covered in white, temperatures drop to -20°C, and outdoor ice rinks become a must-try activity of the season.

How much time should you allow for visiting Astana?

Compared to Almaty, where you can spend several days exploring the city, Astana is smaller and one day is enough to see all the main attractions. Make the most of it if your trip includes a stopover in the capital!

You can contact me via Instagram or WhatsApp to arrange guided tours of the city and surrounding area. I will put you in touch with a trusted local partner.

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