Travel Guide
Astana travel guide
Astana (officially Nur-Sultan 2019-2022, now Astana again), Kazakhstan's futuristic capital, rises from the Eurasian steppe with audacious architecture including Norman Foster's Bayterek Tower and Khan Shatyr mall. Built to showcase Kazakhstan's ambitions, this planned city dazzles with its bold monuments despite extreme continental climate.
Language
Kazakh, Russian
Currency
Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)
Timezone
ALMT (GMT+6)
Best time
May to September
Budget/day
$50-100
When to visit
Jan
-25 to -15°C
Feb
-22 to -12°C
Mar
-10 to 0°C
Apr
2 to 15°C
May
10 to 22°C
Jun
15 to 27°C
Jul
18 to 29°C
Aug
16 to 27°C
Sep
10 to 19°C
Oct
2 to 10°C
Nov
-8 to 0°C
Dec
-18 to -10°C
Safety
Low RiskVery safe, modern city. Extreme cold in winter—dress appropriately. Wind chill severe.
Women travellers
Exercise standard precautions. Research specific areas before visiting. Use registered transport services. Avoid isolated areas at night.
Culture & etiquette
- + Left Bank is new city, Right Bank is older Tselinograd-era
- + Bayterek symbolizes Tree of Life from Kazakh mythology
- + Khan Shatyr has indoor beach despite outdoor -30°C
- + Palace of Peace and Reconciliation hosts interfaith dialogues
- - Don't display expensive items
- - Don't share too much with strangers
- - Don't ignore local customs
- - Don't assume everyone speaks English
Food to try
Beshbarmak
A local favorite worth trying.
Kuurdak
A local favorite worth trying.
Baursak
A local favorite worth trying.
Shubat (camel milk)
A local favorite worth trying.
Lagman
A local favorite worth trying.
Samsa
A local favorite worth trying.
Hidden gems
Details are indicative and may change. Verify visa, safety, and entry requirements before travel.