Back to category Published: 07 july 2021 Author: Zhanna Mukhatzhanova

A Guide to Must-See Attractions in Astana

Every year, over half a million tourists visit the city of Astana for various reasons. Whether for work, educational pursuits, family visits, or simply to experience the city's charm, visitors find a myriad of attractions to explore. Foreign tourists, on average, spend about three days in Astana, providing ample time to discover its wonders.

Astana is situated along the banks of the Esil River and is geographically divided into right and left banks. The right bank embodies the historic center and regions developed during the Soviet era, while the left bank stands as a symbol of contemporary Astana, having emerged after the city became the capital.

A Symbol of the Capital

A must-visit landmark in Astana is the iconic Baiterek Monument. It’s situated at the heart of Nurzhol Boulevard, a pedestrian street that offers panoramic views of Astana's futuristic skyline. From Baiterek, you can walk along the boulevard towards the Akorda Presidential Palace. Although the palace is not open to the public, you can still marvel at it from a distance.

Near the palace, the House of Ministries, the longest building in the city, comes into view. As the name suggests, it houses various government departments. Nearby, other government and parliament buildings stand tall. Closer to the river, the distinct blue-green structure affectionately known as the "cabbage" is the Qazaqstan Concert Hall.

Returning to Baiterek, explore the opposite end of Nurzhol Boulevard, where dancing fountains delight in the evenings. Near the Baiterek, the National Academic Library awaits exploration. Further along, the Keruen Shopping Mall offers diverse shopping experiences.

Nurzhol Boulevard is dotted with cafes and restaurants, making it a favorite dining spot for city guests and nearby business center employees. Architectural wonders like the Emerald Towers and the Temir Zholy Tower add to the visual appeal. Opposite stands the Korme Exhibition Center, often hosting industrial exhibitions. Also, not far from the Baiterek Monument stands the tallest skyscraper in Central Asia – Abu Dhabi Plaza. It’s visible from afar.

Continuing along the boulevard leads to the Round Square surrounded by restaurants. The path then winds through the Park of Lovers, providing a tranquil space to sit on a bench and have some rest. The striking Astana Opera stands adjacent to the park, showcasing remarkable architecture.

The journey culminates at the Khan Shatyr Shopping and Entertainment Center, a colossal structure designed by Sir Norman Foster. It is the world's largest tent-shaped structure.

Old Town

Another must-visit area is the old part of Astana. We recommend navigating it on foot or by bicycle to fully absorb its charm. This area is typically bustling with activity, thanks to its proximity to major streets, administrative offices, residential complexes, and commercial centers. Respublika Avenue, the primary and most captivating street, is lined with boutiques and cafes. On this street, you’ll find Constantine and Helena Cathedral, the city's oldest Orthodox church, and the Military History Museum. Not far from the museum, you'll discover the tranquil Atatürk Park, a perfect spot for relaxation.

Astana, being a relatively young city, has limited historical landmarks, all clustered on the right bank of the Esil River, known as the Old Town. The Saken Seifullin Museum, housed in one of the city's oldest structures, recounts the tragic tale of the renowned Kazakh writer who fell victim to the Soviet regime. The Trading House of Merchant Matvey Kubrin and the Manor of Vasily Kubrin showcase the rich architectural traditions of St. Petersburg. The Russian Drama Theater named after M. Gorky, the oldest theater in the city, not only presents captivating performances but also offers a glimpse into the past.

At the heart of the old center lies Town Square, a focal point worth exploring. Surrounding it, you'll find the E. Rakhmadiev Philharmonic Hall, a significant concert venue. Nearby, Arbat Street, reminiscent of Moscow's famous Arbat, features street musicians, artists displaying paintings, and artisans showcasing their crafts. As you stroll along this pedestrian street, you'll encounter the Palace of Schoolchildren, a historic hub for various clubs and sections for school-aged children. Continuing towards the river, you'll see the monument to Khan Kenesary, the last Kazakh khan and a fighter for independence from the Russian Empire.

A walk along the Esil River Embankment awaits, a favorite spot of city residents. The Atyrau Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge, affectionately known as the "fish bridge" due to its resemblance to a fish carcass, adds a unique touch to the scenery. From the embankment, you can spot the Amphitheater, often hosting open-air concerts.

Crossing the bridge leads to Central Park, a serene natural retreat within the urban landscape. Adjacent to it stands the Ailand Entertainment Center, featuring a Ferris wheel, water park, oceanarium, and a robot dinosaur park. Between Ailand and the park, lies the Atameken Ethno-Memorial Complex, showcasing miniature versions of Kazakhstan’s most notable landmarks. Opposite the Ailand Center, you'll find the Circus and the KeruenCity Shopping Mall.

New Neighborhood on the Right Bank

The right bank of the Esil River has long been associated with the old part of the city, but new neighborhoods keep emerging. Among these, perhaps the most picturesque is Independence Square and its surroundings, featuring unique and memorable architectural wonders.

Independence Square, the largest square in the city, houses the Kazakh Eli Monument. It stands at 91 meters, symbolizing the year 1991 when the country gained sovereignty. Adjacent to it is the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan, housing treasures of the nation's history and culture. The Palace of Independence, a primary venue for official events, and the Shabyt University of the Arts dubbed the "ashtray" for its unconventional shape, are also nearby. The Peace Wall Monument, boasting a large LED display, becomes especially enchanting after sunset. Further along, you'll encounter the striking white Khazret Sultan Mosque, the second-largest in the capital and among the country's largest.

Across the road from Independence Square stands the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, colloquially known as the "pyramid" due to its distinctive shape. Behind the palace lies Presidential Park, named for its proximity to the Akorda Presidential Palace on the opposite bank of the river.

Walking through the park and turning right onto Sarayshyk St., which connects the right and left banks, you'll discover the Park of Bauyrzhan Momyshuly, a World War II hero. Here, a monument in his honor stands alongside a large structure resembling a "jug," housing the Astana Music Hall.

Closer to the embankment, Triathlon Park becomes a favorite spot for cyclists, rollerbladers, and scooter enthusiasts. Across the river, Jetysu Park offers another charming green space to explore.

The EXPO area

In 2017, Astana played host to the EXPO International Exhibition, a grand event that spurred the construction of various facilities, most notably the Kazakhstan pavilion. Presently, it houses the Nur Alem Museum of Future Energy, commonly referred to as the EXPO Sphere. The entire neighborhood around it is known as the EXPO area.

Adjacent to the EXPO Sphere stands the Mega Silkway Shopping Mall, the largest in Astana. Moving beyond, the city unfolds its largest park, the Botanical Garden, providing an ideal setting for leisurely walks and bike rides. In the warm season, the garden pond comes alive with swans, and the greenhouse invites visitors to marvel at exotic plants and capture memorable photos.

On the western side of the Botanical Garden, several sports complexes line the street, including the Saryarka Velodrome, the Astana Arena, and the Alau Ice Rink. Further along, you'll discover the Barys Arena and the Qazaqstan Athletics Complex.

To the eastern side of the park, adjacent to it, lies the Ulytau Alley. At its end stands the Monument of Gratitude to the Kazakh People, a symbol of a tragic historical period when the Soviet government forcibly deported hundreds of thousands of people to Kazakhstan. The Kazakhs welcomed them, providing shelter and sustenance. Ulytau Alley then leads to the Mangilik El Triumphal Arch, commemorating the 20th anniversary of Kazakhstan's independence.

Between the Botanical Garden and the EXPO Sphere, the Astana Ballet Theater takes center stage.

While two additional attractions in the area are best reached by transport, they are well worth the journey. The Open-Air Space Museum features life-size models of space rockets. The second attraction is the Astana Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in the country and among the world's grandest.