Almaty Travel Guide
Almaty is the vibrant, cosmopolitan heart of Kazakhstan, nestled dramatically at the foot of the snow-capped Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. Known as the 'Southern Capital,' it perfectly blends Soviet-era architecture, modern urban energy, and a deep-rooted connection to its natural surroundings.
About Almaty
The area has been inhabited for millennia, but the modern city was founded in 1854 as the Russian military fortification of Verny. It grew rapidly as a trade hub and, after surviving devastating earthquakes in 1887 and 1911, it was renamed Alma-Ata and served as the capital of the Kazakh SSR from 1927 until 1991. Following Kazakhstan's independence, the city was renamed Almaty in 1993. Although the national capital was moved to Astana in 1997, Almaty remains the country's primary financial, scientific, and cultural center, retaining its status as the most influential and diverse city in the nation.
Almaty boasts a rich, multicultural atmosphere where Kazakh traditions meet Russian influence and a modern, international lifestyle. The city is famous for its 'green' identity, filled with sprawling parks, tree-lined avenues, and a cafe culture that thrives from morning until late at night. The food scene is a highlight, featuring traditional Kazakh dishes like _beshbarmak_ (boiled meat and noodles) alongside a wide array of Central Asian, Russian, and international cuisines. The city’s bustling bazaars, particularly the Green Market, are the soul of local life, offering everything from fresh produce to local delicacies.
Practical info
Quick facts
- Almaty is widely considered the ancestral home of the apple; the name 'Almaty' translates to 'Place of Apples.'
- The Zenkov Cathedral is a marvel of engineering, built entirely of wood without the use of a single metal nail.
- The city is famous for its 'upper' and 'lower' orientation, a local way of navigating based on the slope of the mountains.
- Almaty is home to the world's highest high-mountain skating rink, Medeu, which has hosted numerous world records.
- Despite being a large city, it is surrounded by stunning wilderness, allowing residents to reach high-altitude mountain resorts in under an hour.
Top things to do in Almaty
The 0 attractions, museums, viewpoints, and experiences travelers visit most.
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Frequently asked questions
What currency is used in Almaty?
The currency in Almaty, Kazakhstan is Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT).
What language is spoken in Almaty?
Kazakh and Russian is the primary language spoken in Almaty.
What's the weather like in Almaty?
Continental climate with hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters.
How many days do you need in Almaty?
Most travelers spend 2–5 days in Almaty. With 0+ attractions and 0+ noteworthy restaurants, three days hits the highlights, while five lets you dig into neighborhoods and day trips. Use the Periplo iPhone app to lay out a day-by-day plan.
What are the must-see things to do in Almaty?
Top picks include Zenkov Cathedral, Kok Tobe Hill, Medeu Skating Rink, Green Bazaar, Panfilov Park.
Plan Almaty in your pocket
Open the Periplo iPhone app for a day-by-day itinerary, offline maps, and live event picks tuned to your taste.
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