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

Kolsai Lake and Charyn Canyon Day Trip

Kolsai Lake and Charyn Canyon Day Trip

RM175
per adult
Kolsai Lake and Charyn Canyon Day Trip
Big Almaty Lake with Horseback Riding Day Tour

Big Almaty Lake Tour

RM281
per adult
Big Almaty Lake Tour
From Almaty: Kolsay, Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon Day Trip

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

RM195
per adult
From Almaty: Kolsay, Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon Day Trip
Kolsai Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons Day Tour

Kolsai Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons Day Tour (lunch included)

RM281
per adult
Kolsai Kaindy Lakes with Charyn Canyons Day Tour (lunch included)
Explore the Majestic Kolsai Lake, Charyn Canyon & Black Canyon

Explore the Majestic Kolsai Lake, Charyn Canyon & Black Canyon

RM236
per adult
Explore the Majestic Kolsai Lake, Charyn Canyon & Black Canyon
Treasures of Almaty lakes Kaindy and Kolsai,Charyn Canyon VIP car

Treasures of Almaty lakes Kaindy and Kolsai,Charyn Canyon

RM159
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Treasures of Almaty lakes Kaindy and Kolsai,Charyn Canyon
1 Day trip Charyn Canyon Kolsay and Kaindy lakes Small Group

1 Day trip Charyn Canyon Kolsay and Kaindy lakes Small Group

RM155
per adult
1 Day trip Charyn Canyon Kolsay and Kaindy lakes Small Group
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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 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 mountain landscape with a house nestled among trees and snow-capped peaks.
Photo by Roger Knau
Open Photo by Roger Knau

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 Republic Square are top sights worth seeing.

A cityscape with a mountain range in the background.

Turksib District

A range of snow-capped mountains with a valley below.

Auezov District

When in Auezov District, you can plan a visit to Almaty Central Stadium and MEGA Park, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

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 neighbourhoods within walking distance of downtown? Auezov District is about 0.48 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Almaty with kids?
Whether you're holidaying 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 neighbourhoods, 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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