Astana on Foot, Walking Routes and Tips

Astana on foot: routes and tips

Astana rewards walkers with open views and big architecture, but it punishes the unprepared. The city is flat, with wide plazas and long blocks, so distances feel greater than they look on a map. Below are two proven routes, plus the weather rules that matter most. Fares and prices are in tenge (KZT).

Left Bank: from Ak Orda to Khan Shatyr

  • Start: Ak Orda, the presidential palace, which is visible only from outside.
  • Middle: follow Nurzhol Boulevard, a pedestrian axis of roughly 2 km, past the government buildings and the Kazakhstan Central Concert Hall.
  • Landmark: Baiterek, a 97 m monument with a viewing deck at about 86 m. Reported adult tickets are near 2,000 KZT, but opening hours conflict between sources.
  • Finish: Khan Shatyr, the 150 m tent-shaped mall, where you can warm up, eat and look around.
  • Time: 2 to 3 hours with stops.

Right Bank: Central Park and the river

  • Start: Central Park.
  • Middle: cross the free, curved Atyrau pedestrian bridge to the embankment.
  • Finish: follow the river toward the Kenesary Street area.
  • Distance: about 3.5 km, or 1.5 to 2 hours.

The Right Bank is the older side of town, so you will pass more everyday shops and cafes than on the monumental Left Bank.

Winter walking rules

Astana is the second-coldest capital in the world after Ulaanbaatar, and January lows reach -30C to -40C with wind. Follow these rules:

  1. Walk outdoors for no more than about 20 minutes before stepping inside.
  2. Wear thermal layers, a windproof shell, insulated boots, a hat, mittens and a face covering.
  3. Do not step onto the frozen river, except on a municipal skating rink.
  4. Keep your phone warm in an inside pocket, as the cold drains batteries.

The wide plazas funnel wind, so the Left Bank route is the harsher of the two in winter.

Summer walking

From late May to September the weather is usually sunny, with highs of 25 to 35C. Carry water, wear a hat and start early or late in the day. The embankment is livelier in summer, with river boats operating from about May.

Reaching the start points

Tarlan Astana, the light rail, began running on 16 May 2026 from about 06:00 to 23:00 for a flat fare of 200 KZT, and its route passes Baiterek and the National Museum. Check a live map before choosing a station for any sight. The Astana Times article on the opening lists the line details. Buses take 110 KZT by card or QR, or 220 KZT in cash, until 30 November 2026.

If you prefer a guide

The RedBus double-decker gives an overview in 1.5 to 2 hours, leaving at 11:00, 14:00 and 17:00 for 6,000 KZT per adult (the official listing ). Local companies offer private walking tours, which you can browse on GetYourGuide .

Staying safe

The UK government warns about violent theft near bars and clubs at night, pickpocketing and unofficial taxis. Order rides through Yandex Go and keep to well-lit streets.

Read more: Landmarks and museums and outdoor options .