Welcome to Aktobe, a city in western Kazakhstan known for its diverse culture, industrial energy, and as the hometown of Dimash Kudaibergen, one of the country’s most celebrated voices. Blending modern infrastructure with deep historical roots, Aktobe invites travelers to explore its parks, museums, religious landmarks, and even factories open for tours.

Before setting out to explore, make your first stop at the Visit Aktobe tourist center. There, you can grab maps, ask questions, get insider tips, and plan your day. And if you’re lucky, you might catch one of their craft fairs, where local artisans showcase handmade goods and souvenirs. There’s a second Visit Aktobe hub at the airport. It sells city-themed gifts or exclusive Dimash Kudaibergen merch.

Parks and Promenades

A great place to begin exploring Aktobe is the Park of the First President, located along Abilkaiyr Khan Avenue. It's the heart of the city’s public life, surrounded by several other notable landmarks. Right at the entrance, a grand arch welcomes you in. From there, it’s everything you'd expect from a classic city park: amusement rides, a Ferris wheel, fountains, and walking paths perfect for a leisurely stroll or a lazy afternoon.

Just across the road, you’ll find the Stele of Gratitude to the Kazakh People. It commemorates the forced deportations that took place between 1930 and 1952, when the Soviet government relocated Koreans, Kurds, Armenians, Turks, Ukrainians, Germans, Chechens, Poles, and many others to Kazakhstan. Local Kazakhs welcomed the newcomers with open arms, offering help and solidarity in difficult times.

Right behind the stele begins the Triathlon Park. Rent a bike, go for a jog, or cruise around on a scooter. And if you're in the mood for a mini tour of Kazakhstan’s capital, head to the nearby Astana Park, where open-air models of Astana’s landmarks bring the capital closer than ever.

One of the most meaningful spots in Aktobe is the Boulevard of Unity and Reconciliation. This walkway symbolically links the Nur Gasyr Mosque and St. Nicholas Cathedral serving as a powerful reminder of interfaith harmony and the importance of tolerance in Kazakh society. Conveniently, it’s just steps away from the Park of the First President.

Across the river from Triathlon Park, you’ll find the Alley of Manshuk Mametova, named in honor of the young machine gunner and national hero of World War II. A short walk across the bridge leads you straight to the alley.

But Manshuk is not the only celebrated heroine here. Aktobe also pays tribute to Aliya Moldagulova, a legendary WWII sniper and native of the region. A beautiful avenue is dedicated to her memory. Here, you’ll find a monument in her honor, an alley lined with memorial plaques for other war heroes, the Obelisk of Glory, and the Eternal Flame.

And just across the road, aviation enthusiasts will spot something intriguing – a flight school with real aircraft displayed in the yard (39/1 Aliya Moldagulova Ave.). However, access is limited most of the year, the gates open on special dates – May 7 (Defender of the Fatherland Day) and May 9 (Victory Day).

If you’re into active recreation, make sure to check out Densaulyk Park (aka Health Park), right next to the Local History Museum. It features outdoor workout zones, bike paths, football fields, and table tennis tables. It’s the perfect spot to recharge after a museum visit or just get your blood pumping in the open air.

Wandering through the old center of Aktobe? Don’t miss Abay Kunanbayev Boulevard, located just opposite the regional akimat (city administration). It’s got a cozy, slightly nostalgic vibe with its fountains, shooting galleries, and ice cream stands. Just across the street, you’ll spot a monument to Abilkaiyr Khan (a 15th-generation descendant of Genghis Khan and an influential ruler of the 17th-18th centuries).

In Aktobe with only a little time to spare? Don’t waste it sitting around. Right next to the train station is Retro Park. It often hosts events for the older generation, but anyone can appreciate its calm, laid-back atmosphere.

Pushkin Park is one of Aktobe’s oldest green spaces, founded between 1887 and 1890. Once the city’s main park, it has faded in popularity. Walking through it feels like stepping into an open-air museum showcasing Soviet-era rides. You’ll also find a monument to Alexander Pushkin and a stele honoring the fighters for Soviet power. The park sits just across the street from the Akhtanov Drama Theater, making it an ideal spot to pair a cultural outing with a quiet stroll through history.

But if it’s laughter and modern rhythm you’re after, head straight to Yurta Park. This place buzzes with life: amusement rides, a climbing wall, a mini-zoo, cozy yurts, photo zones, restaurants, summer pavilions, and even trestle beds for relaxing in the shade. In winter, the park boasts a skating rink and ice slides.

Be sure to check out Molecule Park, located at 37 Kenes Nokin Avenue. It’s a hit with teens and young adults thanks to its open-air cinema, Instagram-friendly photo zones, board games, and chill café vibes. It’s the perfect place to spend an easygoing evening with friends.

Museums and Theaters

If you truly want to understand Aktobe, start at the Museum of Local History (3 Oraz Tateuly St.). This isn’t just a collection of dusty exhibits, it’s a time machine. It showcases gems and minerals, local wildlife, fossils of prehistoric creatures found along the banks of the Ilek River. You’ll also find archaeological artifacts and traditional household items that paint a vivid picture of everyday life in past centuries.

For those drawn to stories of bravery and sacrifice, the Aliya Moldagulova Memorial Museum (47 Aliya Moldagulova Ave.) is a must-visit. Aliya, a legendary World War II sniper with 78 confirmed kills, is a national heroine. The museum displays wartime weapons, military uniforms, letters from the front, and dioramas.

Looking for something unexpected? Don’t miss the Aktobe Planetarium opened back in 1967. Inside its 10-meter dome, powered by Carl Zeiss equipment, you can witness solar and lunar eclipses, meteor showers, halos, and more. You’ll find it at 50a Zhankozha Batyr Street.

And if visual art is your thing, head over to the Aktobe Museum of Arts (74 Abilkaiyr Khan Ave). The collection includes works by local painters, sculptors, and artisans.

The Akhtanov Drama Theatre (52 Takhaui Akhtanova St.) is the beating heart of Aktobe’s stage scene. It offers a rich program of classical and contemporary plays, however, only in Kazakh and Russian.

For major events, concerts, and performances, head to Oner Ortalygy (90B Abilkaiyr Khan Ave). This modern concert venue boasts a bright, spacious hall and top-notch acoustics. It also houses one of Kazakhstan’s oldest philharmonic societies, founded during World War II. Today, you can catch performances by the orchestra of Kazakh folk instruments, a chamber choir, and a professional dance ensemble.

Little ones (and the young at heart) will love the Alakai Puppet Theatre (17 Beibitshilik Ave), which stages over 40 magical performances in Kazakh and Russian.

And for fans of Dimash Kudaibergen, Aktobe holds a special gem: the Akhmet Zhubanov Music College (31 Sherniyaz St), where the globally acclaimed singer once studied academic vocals.

Spiritual Landmarks

Aktobe is a city where a mosque and a church can stand on the same street, and no one finds it unusual. Different cultures and religions don’t just coexist here, they complement one another, quietly shaping the city’s identity.

Not far from Triathlon Park stands the Nur Gasyr Mosque – an elegant, light-filled building both inside and out. On its ground floor is the Rukhaniyat Museum, where you’ll find a miniature replica of the Kaaba, a model of the oldest mosque in the region (Kokzhar), ornate ablution vessels inlaid with turquoise and smalt, and rare Qurans and religious texts from the 17th-18th centuries.

From Nur Gasyr, the Boulevard of Unity and Reconciliation leads you to the St. Nicholas Cathedral – the city’s largest Orthodox church.

In the heart of the old city, you’ll find one of Aktobe’s quirkiest religious landmarks: the Nurdaulet Mosque, attached – believe it or not – to a shopping mall. When the Baizharkynov family finished building the Nurdaulet shopping mall in 1999, the right wing was left unfinished. They decided to turn it into a mosque. You can find this unique combo at 46B Abilkaiyr-Khan Avenue.

Another meaningful site is the Central Mosque (22 Bersiev St), tucked into a quiet neighborhood of the old town. In the early 20th century, the first mosque of Aktobe stood here. It was dismantled during WWII, but in 1990, a modest new mosque rose on the same spot.

Just steps away from the planetarium, you’ll discover the Church of Archangel Michael (50 Zhankozha Batyr St). Built at the turn of the 20th century, it has retained its serene, almost hidden presence.

Sports and Active Fun

The city’s main football hub is the Kobylandy Batyr Central Stadium (56 Abilkaiyr-Khan Ave), built back in 1975. Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, catching a match here is worth it for the sheer energy of the crowd.

Need a chill – literally? Head to Aktobe Arena (1 Oraz Tateuly St), where the ice never melts. You can skate here year-round, which makes it a perfect pick-me-up whether it’s +30°C or -30°C outside.

Water lovers, rejoice! Aktobe offers several options to dive in. The biggest is the Tree of Life water park, located on the Boulevard of Unity and Reconciliation. Prefer something a little more laid-back? Try the Meduza water park (51 Kenes Nokin Ave), where heated pools make it feel like summer, no matter the season.

For those who like their swims serious and structured, the Poseidon pool (10a Maresyev St.) is the place to be. It’s home to a 50-meter lane – the kind pros train in.

Also, don’t miss the Zhekpe-Zhek Sarayi, the city’s martial arts center (5 Oraz Tateuly St). Whether you’re catching a tournament or joining a training session, the place pulses with power, focus, and fighting spirit.

Shopping Malls and Bazaars

If retail therapy is your kind of adventure, Aktobe won’t disappoint. The city offers everything from fashion boutiques to good old-fashioned bazaars.

Start with Aqtobe Mall, a one-stop spot for fashion, electronics, cafes, and more. Kids will enjoy Jungle Park, an indoor entertainment zone packed with rides.

Just a short stroll from the Park of the First President and St. Nicholas Cathedral, you’ll find Keruen City Shopping Mall (4 Mametova St.). It’s compact, convenient, and perfect for mixing shopping with a walk and a quick coffee.

Looking for variety? Head over to Mega Shygys (208 Kunaev St.). It’s massive and focuses mainly on clothing and shoes, offering an impressive selection that caters to every taste and budget.

A little further down the road is Dalida Center (34E Kenes Nokin Ave). Here, you can pick up anything from clothes and electronics to furniture and household goods.

Over on 30A Aliya Moldagulova Avenue, the Aliya Center delivers the essentials: fashion, footwear, gadgets, and groceries.

And, of course, we can’t leave out the Nurdaulet Shopping Mall (46B Abilkaiyr-Khan Ave) – the one that shares a building with a mosque.

Nature Escapes

Aktobe can be a lively city but sometimes you just need a break from the hum of everyday life. When that moment hits, nature is closer than you think.

Just outside the city, the Ilek River and the Aktobe Reservoir are great spots for sunbathing, fishing, or just enjoying a lazy riverside barbecue.

A local favorite is Green Land Recreation Center – a full-on activity hub that offers horseback riding, ATV adventures, river swims, creative masterclasses, and evenings filled with concerts or stand-up comedy.

Prefer something quieter? Head to Jeti Kazyna – a cozy haven designed for serious relaxation. Expect summer terraces, soft trestle beds, a traditional bathhouse, karaoke, and playgrounds for kids.

And then there’s BarBQ, perched on the shore of the Aktobe Reservoir. In summer, it's all about beach vibes: soft sand, swimming, and boat rides. Come winter, it transforms into a playground offering tubing, ice skating, and ATV rides through snowy trails.

Industrial Tourism

Aktobe offers more than parks and museums. Here, even the factories are worth a tour. Seriously.

Start with the Aktobe Ferroalloy Plant, a massive facility just outside the city. When it opens its doors for visitors, it’s like stepping into a sci-fi movie: glowing metal, giant machinery, and the raw power of industry on full display. The tour often includes a visit to the Kazakhstan Electrolysis Plant, where aluminum takes shape. You can book this tour on the Ferroalloy Plant’s website.

Prefer the sweeter side of industry? The Ice Dairy Plant also offers guided tours. Here, you can trace the path from fresh milk to ice cream.

Aktobe is full of surprises: from quiet parks to industrial giants. Whether you're here for a quick stop or a long stay, the city has a way of staying with you.