Almaty City
Almaty, the former capital of Kazakhstan, is a dynamic metropolis where history, culture, and modern life blend harmoniously. Once the most prominent city of the Kazakh Soviet Republic, Almaty still carries the architectural legacy and cultural atmosphere of its Soviet past—wide avenues, monumental buildings, leafy boulevards, and iconic public spaces. Today, it remains the country’s largest and most populated city, often seen as the cultural and economic heart of Kazakhstan. As one of the fastest-growing cities in Central Asia, Almaty stands at the crossroads of tradition and progress, offering visitors an exciting mix of old and new.
Known as the “green city”, Almaty is famous for its abundance of parks, tree-lined streets, and gardens that flourish against the stunning backdrop of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. It is also the birthplace of the celebrated Aport apple, a symbol of the region’s rich agricultural heritage and natural fertility. From its vibrant center to its peaceful outskirts, nature is always close, making Almaty one of the most visually captivating cities in the region.
Almaty is also a remarkable mosaic of cultures. Home to more than 100 ethnic groups, the city embraces diversity and displays it through its festivals, cuisines, languages, and traditions. Here, you’ll meet Kazakhs, Russians, Uighurs, Koreans, Ukrainians, Tatars, Germans, and many others—each contributing to the city’s lively social fabric and multicultural character. Visitors can taste a wide variety of foods, explore authentic local markets, and experience the warmth and hospitality deeply rooted in the region’s nomadic heritage.
Whether you are strolling through historical districts, exploring modern art galleries, riding the cable car to Kok Tobe, or heading to the mountain resort of Shymbulak, Almaty offers an unforgettable journey through culture, nature, and contemporary urban life. It is a city of contrasts—green yet modern, historic yet vibrant—making it one of the most fascinating destinations in Central Asia.