Almaty 4 days

A lush green oasis in the heart of the city, named after the Panfilov heroes. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, featuring walking paths, fountains, and the iconic Zenkov Cathedral.

• Visit the War of Independence Memorial inside the park.

A stunning Russian Orthodox cathedral entirely made of wooden planks, with no nails used in its construction. It has withstood earthquakes and remains a vibrant place of worship and a architectural marvel.

A bustling traditional market where you can find a wide array of local produce, spices, dried fruits, nuts, traditional Kazakh clothing, and souvenirs. It's a great place to sample local delicacies.

• Be prepared to haggle for the best prices.
• Try the kumis (fermented mare's milk) if you're adventurous.

A scenic hill overlooking Almaty, accessible by cable car. It offers panoramic city views, a small amusement park, a mini zoo, and restaurants. The iconic Almaty TV tower is also located here.

• Take the cable car up for a memorable experience.
• Enjoy the sunset from the viewpoint for stunning photo opportunities.

A popular mid-range restaurant offering a diverse menu of Kazakh and European dishes. It's known for its pleasant atmosphere and good service, making it a great spot for dinner.

The world's highest-altitude outdoor ice skating rink, nestled in a picturesque mountain valley. Even outside of the skating season, the area offers stunning natural beauty and fresh mountain air.

• Check if the rink is open for skating depending on the season.

A premier ski resort accessible from Medeu via a modern cable car system. It offers fantastic skiing and snowboarding in winter, and breathtaking hiking trails and scenic views in summer.

• Purchase a multi-day ski pass if you plan to ski extensively.
• The views from the upper stations are spectacular year-round.

For more adventurous hikers, a trek towards Talgar Pass offers even more dramatic mountain vistas and a sense of remote wilderness. This is a more strenuous option.

• Ensure you have appropriate hiking gear and water.
• Check weather conditions before setting out.

Enjoy lunch or an early dinner with stunning mountain views at one of the restaurants located at Shymbulak or along the road back towards Medeu. Veranda offers a good mix of local and international cuisine.

Explore the rich history and culture of Kazakhstan through extensive exhibits, including archaeological finds, ethnographic displays, and historical artifacts. The museum provides a comprehensive overview of the nation's heritage.

A grand architectural landmark and a center for performing arts in Almaty. Admire its neoclassical facade and consider attending a performance if your schedule allows.

• Check the schedule for ballet, opera, or concert performances.
• The building itself is an architectural highlight.

Home to the most significant collection of Kazakh fine arts, as well as Russian and Western European art. It showcases a diverse range of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

A vibrant pedestrian street filled with artists, street performers, cafes, and shops. It's a lively place to stroll, people-watch, and soak in the local atmosphere.

A popular gastropub known for its craft beers and modern European cuisine. It has a lively atmosphere and is a great option for a relaxed dinner and drinks.

A stunning turquoise mountain lake situated in the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, about 15 km south of Almaty. The lake is a source of drinking water for the city and access can sometimes be restricted, but its beauty is undeniable.

• Check current access status before visiting as it can change due to security or environmental reasons.
• The road can be rough; consider a 4x4 vehicle or a guided tour.
• Bring warm clothing, as temperatures are significantly cooler at this altitude.

Pack a picnic with local delicacies purchased from Green Bazaar or a local cafe to enjoy amidst the natural beauty near Big Almaty Lake. This offers a more intimate experience with the landscape.

Located near Big Almaty Lake, this center showcases traditional Kazakh falconry. Witness impressive demonstrations of trained birds of prey and learn about this ancient hunting art.

• Shows are typically held at specific times, so check the schedule.
• This is a great educational experience for understanding Kazakh heritage.

A well-regarded restaurant offering delicious Uzbek and Central Asian cuisine. It's a good choice for a farewell dinner, with a cozy ambiance and flavorful dishes.