Nur Sultan Kazakhstan 6 Day Itinerary

Nur-Sultan: 6 Day Itinerary

Nur-Sultan, the capital city of Kazakhstan, is a modern metropolis with impressive architecture, cultural attractions, and a rich history. This 6-day itinerary will help you explore the highlights of the city and experience its unique blend of tradition and futuristic design.

Things to know:

  • Visa Requirements: Check if you need a visa to enter Kazakhstan based on your nationality.

  • Currency: The local currency is the Tenge (KZT).

  • Language: While Kazakh is the official language, Russian is widely spoken. English is less common but becoming more prevalent in tourist areas.

  • Culture:

    • Nur-Sultan is a diverse city with influences from both nomadic Turkic traditions and modern Soviet architecture. Be respectful of local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Transportation:

  • Public Transportation: The city has a good public transportation system with buses, trolleybuses, and a modern metro network.
  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available and generally affordable. Downloading a taxi app like “Taxi Astana” or “Uber” (yes, it’s available in some parts!) is the easiest way to get around.

6 Day Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival & Modern Marvels

  • Morning: Arrive at Hazrat Sultan International Airport (NSK) in Nur-Sultan. Take a taxi to your hotel in the city center.
  • Afternoon: Explore the modern side of Nur-Sultan by visiting the Bayterek Tower, a symbol of the city’s unique architecture and a great place for panoramic views. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kazakh dinner at Restaurant “Zhanaar” (for example)

Day 2: Cultural Immersion

  • Visit the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan, showcasing the country’s history and culture.
  • Explore the Astana Opera House and its impressive architecture.

Day 3: Spiritual Journey

  • Take a trip to the Nur-Astana Mosque. This stunning mosque is one of the largest in Central Asia and offers beautiful architecture and Islamic calligraphy.
  • Explore the city’s religious diversity: Visit the Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral, a magnificent example of modern Orthodox architecture.

Day 4: The Green Heart of Nur-Sultan

  • Discover the Bayterek Monument, a striking architectural landmark offering breathtaking views of the city.
  • Enjoy a peaceful stroll through Astana Botanical Garden.

Day 5: Shopping & Entertainment

  • Explore the modern shopping malls in the city, like Khan Shatyr Shopping and Entertainment Center (a must-see!), for souvenirs, local crafts, and traditional food items.

  • Experience the modern side of the city: In the afternoon, visit the Astana Mall or Mega Silk Way for a taste of contemporary Kazakh life.

Day 6: Departure & Exploration

  • Explore Astana’s bustling shopping district before heading to the airport.
  • Enjoy a final traditional meal at a local restaurant (ask your hotel for recommendations, they are often keen on showing off their cuisine).
  • Visit the city’s parks and gardens: The Astana Park is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Things to do:

  • Enjoy the Bayterek Monument: This iconic structure offers stunning views of the city, a unique observation deck, and a museum showcasing the history and culture of Kazakhstan.
  • Visit the Astana Opera House: Experience a performance at this magnificent venue that showcases world-class opera and ballet.

Where to eat:

  • Traditional Kazakh food:

    • Restaurant “Aisha Bibi”: This restaurant is known for its authentic Kazakh cuisine, a must-try for those who want to experience local flavors.

  • International Cuisine:

    • Restaurant “The Ritz Carlton, Astana”: Enjoy fine dining with a global flair at this luxurious hotel’s restaurant.

  • Modern Shopping & Dining Experiences:

    • Khan Shatyr Entertainment Centre: This complex features a variety of restaurants and cafes offering both traditional and international cuisine.
    • Astana Mall: A modern shopping mall with numerous international eateries, perfect for grabbing a quick bite or a fancy meal.
    • Local markets: For a more adventurous palate, explore the local markets and try some delicious street food like “beshbarmak” (a dish of boiled meat served with noodles) or “kurdak” (grilled lamb).

Tips:

  • Learn basic Russian phrases: It will be helpful for navigating the city, especially outside of tourist areas.
  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Dress in layers: The weather can change quickly in Nur-Sultan, so it’s best to be prepared.

Things to consider:

  • Currency: The local currency is the Tenge (KZT). While US dollars are sometimes accepted, you’ll get a better exchange rate if you use Tenge.
  • Weather: The climate in Nur-Sultan can be extreme. Be sure to pack for all types of weather, from scorching summers to freezing winters.

Things to know:

  • Climate:

    • Summer (June - August): The city experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Pack light clothing for the summer months.

  • Activities:

    • Explore the city’s modern architecture: Visit the Astana International Airport, a stunning architectural masterpiece.
    • Visit the Astana Opera House: Experience a world-class performance at the Astana Opera House (or any other venue).

  • Dress Code: Dress conservatively for religious visits. Shoulders and knees should be covered.

Other tips:

  • Weather:

    • Weather app: Download a weather app with detailed information about the local climate.
    • Currency exchange: Exchange your currency at a bank or authorized exchange bureau for the best rates.

  • Things to do:

    • Research: Find out what events are happening during your visit and plan accordingly.
    • Dress appropriately: Dress in layers, as the temperature can fluctuate throughout the day.

Things to see:

  • Museum of the Future: Explore the city’s futuristic vision at the “Astana International University” museum.
  • Bayterek Tower: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the top of this iconic structure.
  • Khan Shatyr Shopping and Entertainment Centre: A modern architectural marvel, it’s worth visiting even if you don’t plan to shop.

Things to do:

  • Try the local cuisine: Sample traditional dishes like “beshbarmak” (meat and noodles) or “manti” (steamed dumplings).
  • Visit the Baiterek Monument: Take a tour of the city’s museums, including the “National Museum of Kazakhstan” for a taste of international flavors.

Other things to keep in mind:

  • Dress for the weather: The weather can be extreme. Wear sunscreen and hats during summer and dress warmly in winter.
  • Respect personal space: Kazakhs tend to value personal space, so avoid standing too close or touching people unless they initiate it.

Enjoy your visit to the fascinating city of Nursultan!