Astana

City · 🇰🇿 Kazakhstan

Population 1,078,362

Area 314 km²

Time zone Asia/Almaty

Official website www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/astana

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Featured Lists

Nikolay Olkhovoy / CC BY 3.0

Astana Essentials

Astana, Kazakhstan's capital, is defined by its rapid transformation and avant-garde architecture. This selection features the 97-meter Bayterek tower, the Norman Foster-designed Khan Shatyr entertainment center, and the pyramid-shaped Palace of Peace and Reconciliation. It also includes the Hazrat Sultan Mosque, one of the largest in Central Asia, alongside cultural landmarks like the National Museum and the Astana Opera, illustrating the city's blend of nomadic heritage and high-tech urban planning.

12 places

Sygic Travel User / CC-BY-SA

Cultural Landmarks of Astana

Astana's cultural landscape is defined by bold, futuristic architecture and deep historical roots. This collection features the 91-meter Kazak Eli Monument and the Bayterek tower, both symbolic of national identity. The city’s artistic scene is anchored by the Astana Opera’s neoclassical grandeur and the flower-shaped Central Concert Hall. Visitors can explore Central Asia’s largest museum, the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan, or view the city's unique flying-saucer-shaped circus. Each site offers a glimpse into Kazakhstan’s transition from nomadic traditions to a modern global capital.

10 places

ChelseaFunNumberOne / CC BY-SA 3.0

Sports & Leisure Venues

Astana’s skyline is defined by futuristic sports venues, many concentrated along Kabanbay Batyr Avenue. The city features world-class facilities like the 30,000-seat Astana Arena with its retractable roof and the Saryarka Velodrome, designed in the shape of a cyclist's helmet. These venues host international competitions in speed skating, ice hockey, and cycling, serving as the home grounds for professional teams like FC Astana and Barys Astana.

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Сергей Марцынюк / CC BY-SA 3.0

Best Shopping Malls

Astana’s retail landscape is defined by bold architecture and expansive multi-functional spaces. The city features the Norman Foster-designed Khan Shatyr, a massive transparent tent housing an indoor beach, and Mega SilkWay, the capital's largest mall situated near the EXPO district. These centers offer a mix of international brands, multi-screen cinemas, and diverse dining options. From the high-end boutiques of Keruen near the Bayterek Tower to the historic Sine Tempore in the old city center, these destinations serve as the city's primary social and commercial hubs.

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Local Markets & Bazaars

Astana's retail landscape features a mix of traditional bazaars and modern supermarket chains. Traditional markets like Shapagat and Kok Bazar specialize in regional Kazakh products, including horse meat, dried fruits, and fermented dairy like kurt. These hubs offer a glimpse into local trade practices alongside major retailers like Magnum and Small, which provide 24-hour access to household essentials and international brands. Most of these markets are concentrated in the city's historic right-bank district.

10 places