We have collected for you the most interesting places in Astana, where you can have a fascinating time.
Astana is the capital of Kazakhstan, where modernity is closely intertwined with a rich historical heritage. In just a few decades, the city has turned into a modern metropolis, striking cultural diversity, architectural masterpieces and picturesque spacious streets.
Main sights of Astana
Astana has absorbed elements of western and eastern cultures. Therefore, the city is very atmospheric and it is always pleasant to just walk around it. In this section we have collected a list of the most interesting places to visit while traveling.
Baiterek
A monument with an observation tower, symbolizing the transfer of the capital to Astana in 1997. The concept of the monument: the Tree of Life, growing from the World River, supports the Earth. Baiterek has become a symbol of a new life stage of Kazakhstan.
Address: Nurzhol Boulevard, 14
Palace of Peace and Concord
The spectacular glass pyramid was designed by the famous British architect Norman Foster. The palace symbolizes the unity of the world's major religions. Inside is also a large opera hall, which was opened by Montserrat Caballé herself in 2007.
Address: 57 Tauelsizdik Avenue
Khan Shatyr
A huge shopping and entertainment center and one of the main symbols of Kazakhstan. The largest "tent" in the world is definitely worth seeing with your own eyes. The height of the spire is 150 meters. There is even an artificial sandy beach with climate control inside.
Address: 37 Turan Avenue
Akorda
The residence of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan and at the same time an architectural landmark of the city. The building is 80 meters high and made of monolithic concrete and faced with Italian marble. In front of the palace there is a spacious square.
Address: beginning of Nurzhol Boulevard
Khazret Sultan Mosque
A classic Islamic mosque with traditional Kazakh ornaments is definitely in the tourist guide. On holidays it can accommodate up to 10 thousand people. The building has the largest dome in Kazakhstan.
Address: Tauelsizdik Avenue, 48
National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan
The largest museum of the country has 7 blocks of different floors. There are expositions devoted to ancient and medieval history, ethnography, gold articles, modern art, Independent Kazakhstan and Astana itself. It is possible to split the excursion into 2 days.
Address: 54, Tauelsizdik Ave.
Triumphal Arch "Mangilik El"
The height of the arch reaches 20 meters in honor of the 20th anniversary of Kazakhstan's independence. A spiral staircase leads to the observation deck. The arch is decorated with sculptures and Kazakh ornaments, which are interesting to look at.
Address: Mangilik El Avenue, 10/1
Ethno-memorial complex "Atameken"
The unique ethno-memorial complex is a miniature map of the country with all its landscape and architectural sights. If you are thinking where to go and what to see in Kazakhstan, you can start familiarizing yourself with interesting and popular places here in just 1 day.
A cool and free strolling place for young people, couples and the whole family. In the warm season artists and musicians gather here, and in winter they pour a skating rink. There are boat rides, children's attractions and other entertainment for all tastes.
Capital Park of Culture and Recreation
It is the Central Park of Astana with the area of more than a hundred hectares. It is suitable for teenagers, children, family vacations, walks with friends and for any active leisure. There are rides and everything you need for various sports, including a swimming pool, trampoline and driving range.
Address: Turan Avenue
The most interesting places in Astana
If you need more ideas of what to visit in Astana - they are already collected in that section. The city is rich in both popular and almost unknown museums, parks, churches and monuments. There are regularly held cool exhibitions and festivals. You won't be bored!
Streets and squares
In the administrative and business center of the city there is Nurzhol Boulevard - one of the best streets for walking. There is a steep pedestrian zone with the Alley of Singing Fountains. On Tole Bi Street is the main square of Astana, where all major city events and celebrations are held.
Parks
Astana has many green areas, squares and parks: the square of the museum of the First President, Koktal Park, Teachers' Square, Student Park, Lovers' Square. Astana Botanical Garden boasts not only excellent infrastructure, but also the largest city fountain "Taikazan".
Monuments
Among the interesting monuments we recommend visiting the monument "Cossack Ely" on Independence Square, the fountain "Circus", the monument to Kenesary Khan, the Tree of Life fountain, monuments to Zhambyl Zhabaev and Aliya Moldagulova, the monument "Friendship of Peoples". Pay attention to the monument to Alexander Pushkin, several monuments to Saken Seifullin and the sculpture "Astana" in the park on Tashenov Street. The mosaic panels "Space" and "Seal" at 25 Beibitshilik Street look original.
Museums and exhibitions
During excursions around the city you should definitely visit the Museum of the First President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, dedicated to the modern history of the country. Various interesting events and lectures are constantly held here. Also worthy of attention are:
Open Air Space Museum on the left bank.
National Picture Gallery, specializing in the popularization of Kazakhstani art.
Military History Museum with rare and unique exhibits.
Nur-Alem Museum of Future Energy, dedicated to alternative energy sources.
Museum of Modern Art, which annually organizes up to 50 stationary and traveling exhibitions.
Saken Seyfullin Museum, dedicated to the life and activities of the famous poet and writer.
Temple architecture
All major religions of the world intersect in Astana, so there are plenty of religious sights to visit.
The Astana Central Mosque is the largest cathedral mosque in Kazakhstan and Central Asia.
Mosques of Abu Nasyr al-Farabi, Sheikh Kunta Haji, Sadvakas Haji Gilmani, "Shubar" and "Tolybai".
The Cathedral in honor of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is one of the largest in Central Asia. There are also several other Orthodox churches and a monastery.
Roman Catholic Cathedral of the Archdiocese of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the parish of the Mother of All Nations.
Beit Rachel - Chabad Lubavitch Synagogue.
Several major cemeteries, including the ancient Muslim Karaotkel and the elite National Pantheon.
Theaters
What else is interesting to see in Astana? Theaters, of course!
Central Concert Hall "Kazakhstan" - is the largest concert venue in the country and a unique project of an Italian architect with the second name "Desert Flower".
Astana Circus will please children and adults with good performances.
"Astana Opera" is a classic opera and ballet theater, and another architectural landmark.
K. Kuanyshbaev Musical Drama Theater is one of the largest theaters in the city.
Russian Drama Theater named after M. Gorky - the oldest drama theater in Astana, built in the late XIX century.
Viewing platforms
Astana's main observation platforms are at Bayterek and the Triumphal Arch. On the top floor of the Palace of Peace and Concord there is a hall "Cradle" with a glass dome. On the left bank is the Triumph Astana Residential Complex, which also has observation decks with a magnificent view of the city panorama. And one more platform - on the 32nd floor of the complex "Transport Tower".
Astana is a city that inspires and surprises. Local sights are a part of history and a symbol of the future, and it is in them that the dynamic development of Kazakhstan is reflected. There is definitely something to show and see here.
