Things to do in Almaty

Activities, attractions and tours

A mountainous landscape with a dirt path, dense forests, and snow-capped peaks under a partly cloudy sky.
A turquoise lake surrounded by snow-covered mountains and rocky terrain.
A large public square with a central fountain, surrounded by a colonnade and a building with columns.
A snow-covered church with ornate domes and spires, surrounded by snow-laden trees.
A grand neoclassical building with a central dome, flanked by symmetrical columns, and surrounded by well-manicured gardens.

Things to do

Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen

Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall

P2,820
per adult
Small-Group Tour: Lake Issyk with Turgen (Bear) Waterfall
Picture 1 for Activity Almaty: City tour and Medeu, Shymbulak and Kok-Tobe

Almaty: City tour and Medeu, Shymbulak and Kok-Tobe

P3,077
per adult
Almaty: City tour and Medeu, Shymbulak and Kok-Tobe
From Almaty: Kolsay, Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon Day Trip

From Almaty: Kolsay, Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon Day Trip

P3,007
per adult
From Almaty: Kolsay, Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon Day Trip
Kolsai Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons Day Tour

Small-Group Tour: Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons

P4,950
per adult
Small-Group Tour: Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons
Issyk Lake & Bear Waterfall Scenic Day Tour

Issyk Lake & Bear Waterfall Scenic Day Tour

P2,324
per adult
Issyk Lake & Bear Waterfall Scenic Day Tour
1 Day Tour to Kolsay Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon

1 Day Tour to Kolsay Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon

P3,509
per adult
1 Day Tour to Kolsay Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon
Kolsay Kaindy and Black canyon

Kolsay Kaindy and Black canyon

P3,885
per adult
Kolsay Kaindy and Black canyon
Issyk Lake and Bear Waterfall Day Tour in Almaty

Issyk Lake and Bear Waterfall Day Tour in Almaty

P2,193
per adult
Issyk Lake and Bear Waterfall Day Tour in Almaty
Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons Day Trip

Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons Day Trip

P3,580
per adult
Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons Day Trip
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What to do in Almaty

Stay near popular Almaty attractions

A snow-covered mountain range, a turquoise lake, and dense evergreen forests.

Big Almaty Lake

8.8/10 (55 reviews)
This glacial lake's turquoise waters shimmer against the backdrop of snow-capped Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. Visit on weekdays to experience its serene beauty with fewer crowds.
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Where to stay in Almaty

Find the best Almaty areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Almaty
Learn more about Almaty
A cityscape at dusk with snow-capped mountains in the background and a prominent building with a green roof in the foreground.

Almaly District

While you're in Almaly District, take in top sights like MEGA Park and jump on the metro at Almaly to see more of the city.

A colorful church with multiple domes and a green roof, surrounded by trees and red flowers.

Medeu District

While visiting Medeu District, you might make a stop by sights like Shymbulak Ski Resort and Medeo.

A mountain landscape with a turquoise lake and snow-capped peaks.

Bostandyk District

If you're spending some time in Bostandyk District, Almaty Central Stadium and Big Almaty Lake are top sights worth seeing.

A cityscape with a mountain range in the background.

Turksib District

Three golden-brown pastries on a white plate.
Photo by Raisa Wells
Open Photo by Raisa Wells

Jetysu District

Jetysu District might not have many top sights, but MEGA Park and Almaty Opera House are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Frequently asked questions

Is Almaty worth visiting?
Famous for its hiking and nature, finding fun things to do in Almaty is a breeze. Make sure to add Zenkov Cathedral to your trip itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Almaty?
Begin your day with a visit to Presidential Palace and Almaty Zoo. Then, explore other parts of Almaty for local dining and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Almaty?
Zenkov Cathedral is one of the top tourist attractions in Almaty and should feature high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Almaty?
Three days in Almaty is enough to enjoy the city's main highlights. Many guests book for four days on average. Zenkov Cathedral, Presidential Palace and Lermontov Russian Drama Theatre are highly rated sights. Want to discover more? Stick around a while longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Medeu District.
Is Almaty a walkable city?
With major attractions like Republican German Drama Theatre nearby, Almaty is very much a destination to explore on foot. Like to visit some exciting neighborhoods within walking distance of downtown? Auezov District is about 0.48 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Almaty with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a schedule filled with fun activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Check out our ideas for what to do in Almaty with kids.
What to do in Almaty for adults?
Geology Museum is one of the main things to do in Almaty. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Almaty?
From checking out parks to strolling around exciting neighborhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Almaty. If you're looking for inspiration, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Zenkov Cathedral is a great spot for anyone wishing to save on their travel adventures.

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