Overview
Astana is the capital of Kazakhstan and one of the youngest purpose-built capitals in the world. Renamed from Nur-Sultan back to Astana in 2022, the city sits on the northern steppe at the confluence of the Ishim River and the surrounding flat, semi-arid landscape. Its skyline — dominated by soaring glass towers, gilded domes, and sculptural landmarks — is a deliberate statement of national ambition and is unlike any other Central Asian city.
The city is divided broadly into the older, Soviet-era left bank of the Ishim and the modern administrative and commercial right bank developed from the late 1990s onward. The right bank is where most visitor landmarks are concentrated, laid out along a ceremonial axis that culminates at the Baiterek Tower. Despite its grand urban design, Astana remains a relatively compact destination; most major sights can be covered comfortably in two full days.
Beyond architecture, Astana offers insight into contemporary Kazakhstan — a country navigating its post-Soviet identity while projecting a confident, forward-looking image to the world. Museums, a thriving café culture, and a growing restaurant scene make the city increasingly hospitable to international visitors.
Before You Go
Visas
Visa requirements for Kazakhstan vary significantly by nationality and are subject to change. Do not rely on outdated sources. Check TravelerPulse's Visas section for current guidance, and verify your specific situation with the official Kazakhstan Ministry of Foreign Affairs or your nearest Kazakhstani embassy before booking.
Climate
Astana has one of the most continental climates of any capital city on earth. Winters (November–March) are severe, with temperatures regularly dropping below −20 °C and strong steppe winds that raise the perceived cold significantly. Summers (June–August) are short but warm to hot, with temperatures reaching 30–35 °C. Spring and autumn are brief transition seasons. Pack in layers regardless of when you travel, and expect rapid weather changes.
Health
No mandatory vaccinations are required for most travelers, but consult your doctor or a travel health clinic before departure. Tap water quality varies; bottled or filtered water is the safer choice. Travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended given the distance to specialized medical facilities.
Connectivity
Local SIM cards are readily available at the airport and in shopping centers from major Kazakhstani carriers. Data speeds in the city center are generally good. Many cafés and hotel lobbies offer free Wi-Fi.
Getting There
By Air
Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (IATA: NQZ) serves Astana and is the main international gateway. Direct or one-stop connections exist from major hubs in Europe, the Middle East, Russia, and across Central Asia. Air Astana is the national carrier. Verify current routes and schedules directly with airlines or booking platforms, as they change seasonally.
By Train
Astana is a major node on Kazakhstan's rail network. Long-distance trains connect the capital with Almaty (journey times vary; roughly 12–14 hours on standard services, shorter on faster trains), as well as cities in Russia and other regional destinations. The main railway station is centrally located on the left bank. Booking in advance, especially around national holidays, is advisable.
By Road
Long-distance bus and shared taxi services connect Astana with other Kazakhstani cities. Road conditions between major urban centers are generally acceptable but can deteriorate on secondary routes. Travelers arriving from neighboring countries by road should verify border crossing procedures and operating hours before travel.
Getting Around
Public Transit
Astana has a bus network that covers most of the city, including routes between the left and right banks. A metro system has been under development; verify locally whether any lines are operational at the time of your visit. Buses are inexpensive and routes can be navigated with the help of mapping apps.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Ride-hailing apps — including Yandex Go, which is widely used across the region — are the most convenient option for getting around. Standard taxis are also available; agree on a fare before departure if using an unmetered cab. Ride-hailing is generally reliable and affordable within the city.
Walking and Cycling
The right-bank ceremonial district is navigable on foot, though distances between landmarks are larger than they appear on maps. Winters make walking challenging due to cold and ice. The city has some cycling infrastructure, but bikes are primarily a warm-season option. Car rentals are available at the airport through international and local agencies — verify requirements locally.
Things to See & Do
Landmarks and Architecture
- Baiterek Tower — The city's defining landmark, a 97-metre observation tower representing a mythological tree of life. The viewing platform offers panoramic views of the right-bank skyline. Admission fees and hours: verify locally or at the site.
- Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center — A massive transparent tent structure designed by Norman Foster, housing retail, leisure, and an indoor beach resort. Worth visiting as an architectural spectacle even if you don't shop.
- Palace of Peace and Reconciliation (Pyramid) — Another Norman Foster design, a glass pyramid that hosts conferences and cultural events. Interior access may be restricted; verify locally.
- Hazrat Sultan Mosque — One of the largest mosques in Central Asia, located near the government quarter. Respectful visitors are generally welcome outside of prayer times; dress modestly.
- EXPO 2017 Site (Nur Alem Sphere) — The legacy site of the international energy-themed expo, now operating as a museum complex. The spherical Nur Alem pavilion is a striking structure; opening hours and admission fees should be confirmed on-site.
Museums and Culture
- National Museum of Kazakhstan — A large modern museum covering Kazakhstani history, culture, and ethnography from prehistoric times to the present. One of the better-curated national museums in Central Asia.
- Presidential Cultural Centre — Contains historical exhibits and a library; access to some areas may be restricted.
Outdoor and Seasonal
The Ishim River embankment is pleasant for walks in warm months. Astana hosts large public events around Nauryz (Kazakh New Year, around 21 March) and Independence Day (16 December), when the city is at its most festive — though December celebrations take place in extreme cold.
Food & Drink
Astana has a diverse and rapidly evolving restaurant scene that reflects both Kazakhstani culinary traditions and the cosmopolitan mix of residents. Traditional Kazakh cuisine centers on meat — particularly lamb and horse — and dairy products. Beshbarmak (boiled meat over flat noodles), manti (steamed dumplings), samsa (baked pastries), and shubat (fermented camel milk) are staples worth trying.
The right-bank area and major shopping centers house a wide range of dining options, from Kazakh and Russian restaurants to sushi bars, Korean BBQ, and international fast food. The left bank has a more neighborhood feel with older, often less expensive canteens and local cafés.
Alcohol is widely available in restaurants, bars, and shops, though Kazakhstan is a majority-Muslim country and attitudes vary. During Ramadan, some establishments may adjust hours or reduce alcohol service — verify locally. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; small amounts rounding up the bill are common practice.
Shopping
Shopping in Astana is dominated by large modern malls, particularly on the right bank. Khan Shatyr and Keruen Mall are among the largest and most visited. These centers stock international brands alongside Kazakhstani goods.
For souvenirs with local character, look for felt crafts (shyrdak and tekemet rugs and decorative items), hand-embroidered textiles, carved wooden objects, and traditional jewelry. The National Museum gift shop is a reliable starting point for quality Kazakhstani crafts. A small number of craft markets and souvenir stalls operate near major tourist landmarks, particularly in warmer months — availability varies seasonally.
Practical Information
Money
ATMs are widely available in the city center and shopping malls. Major credit and debit cards are accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and malls, but smaller establishments and markets are often cash-only. Currency exchange offices are common; compare rates before exchanging.
Emergency Contacts
Do not rely on numbers listed in travel guides, as they can change. Look up current emergency numbers (police, ambulance, fire) for Kazakhstan before departure and save them in your phone. Your country's embassy or consulate in Astana can assist citizens in serious emergencies — locate contact details on your government's official foreign affairs website.
Communications
Kazakhstan's country code is +7. Calling internationally from a local SIM is straightforward. VoIP services such as WhatsApp are widely used by locals and are a practical way to stay in touch.
Electricity
Kazakhstan uses 220V/50Hz electricity with Type C and Type F (European-style round pin) sockets. Travelers from North America and some other regions will need a voltage converter and adapter.
Safety
Astana is generally considered safe for travelers by regional standards. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas; standard urban precautions apply. Avoid displaying expensive equipment unnecessarily and be cautious in quieter areas late at night.
The city experiences extreme winter weather that can pose real risks — frostbite and hypothermia are genuine hazards at −30 °C or below. Dress appropriately and limit time outdoors in severe cold. Ice on pavements is a common hazard from November through March.
Always carry a copy of your passport and visa documentation. Kazakhstan law requires foreigners to register their place of stay; hotels handle this automatically, but travelers staying with private hosts should ensure registration is completed — verify current requirements with official sources before travel.
Local Culture & Etiquette
Kazakhstan is a predominantly Muslim country with a strong nomadic heritage, though Astana as a capital city is notably secular and cosmopolitan in atmosphere. Religious observance ranges widely among residents. Modest dress is appreciated when visiting mosques or religious sites; remove shoes when entering; women should carry a headscarf.
Kazakh hospitality is a genuine cultural value. If invited into someone's home, it is customary to accept offered food and drink rather than refuse outright — declining repeatedly or entirely can seem impolite. Bringing a small gift when visiting is a thoughtful gesture.
The Kazakh and Russian languages coexist in daily life. Making a small effort with basic Kazakh or Russian greetings is appreciated. Photography of government buildings, military installations, and some public infrastructure may be restricted — observe posted signs and exercise judgment.
