If you only have one day in Astana, it's best to focus on the capital's main symbols: modern architecture, panoramic views, and a few key museums. Most locations are on the left bank and can easily be visited in a single day. ⸻ 09:00–11:00 — National Museum of Kazakhstan Start your day at the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan. What to see: · The Golden Man; · Ancient artifacts of nomadic cultures; · The history of independent Kazakhstan; · Interactive multimedia exhibits. ⏱ Time needed: 1.5–2 hours. ⸻ 11:00–11:30 — Kazakh Eli Monument Right next to the museum is the Kazakh Eli Monument. This is one of the country's national symbols and a great spot for your first panoramic photos. ⏱ 20–30 minutes. ⸻ 11. 30–12:30 — Palace of Peace and Reconciliation Visit the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation. Highlights: · The famous glass pyramid; · Unique architecture; · The stunning inner atrium; · Observation decks. ⏱ About 1 hour. ⸻ 12. 30–13:30 — Lunch We recommend grabbing lunch around Independence Square or heading toward the city center. Must-try foods: · Beshbarmak; · Kazy; · Baursaks; · Modern Kazakh cuisine. ⸻ 13. 30–15:00 — Baiterek Baiterek Monument is the capital's main attraction. Head up to the observation deck inside the golden sphere. What you'll see: · Nurzhol Boulevard; · Akorda (the Presidential Palace); · The city's modern neighborhoods. ⏱ 1–1.5 hours. ⸻ 15. 00–16:00 — Stroll along Nurzhol Boulevard Nurzhol Boulevard During your walk, you'll see: · Modern skyscrapers; · Fountains; · The architectural highlights of the capital. This is the best place to truly feel the scale of the new Astana. ⸻ 16. 00–17:00 — Lovers Park Lovers Park Take a relaxing stroll among the greenery before the evening part of your itinerary. What to see: · The Fountain of Lovers; · Art installations; · Great views of the city's modern buildings. ⸻ 17. 00–18:30 — Khan Shatyr Khan Shatyr The most unusual shopping and entertainment center in Kazakhstan. Here you can: · Head up to the top levels for city views; · Grab dinner; · Unwind after a day of walking. ⸻ 18. 30–20:00 — Sunset at Baiterek and Nurzhol Head back to the Baiterek area just in time for sunset. You'll get the best photos of Astana in the evening when: · The city lights up; · The skyscrapers reflect the last rays of the sun; · The city begins to glow with lights. ⸻ If you only have 6–7 hours Priority locations: 1. National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan 2. Palace of Peace and Reconciliation 3. Baiterek Monument 4. Khan Shatyr

Walking around Astana: from Baiterek to the Embankment If you want to experience the city from the inside, forget about taxis for the evening. The best way to appreciate the contrasts of Kazakhstan's capital is to walk from the futuristic Left Bank to the soulful Right Bank embankment. This route will take you about 1–1.5 hours at a leisurely pace. Get your perfect guide! 📍 Starting Point: Baiterek Monument Begin your journey at the country's main symbol, the 97-meter-tall "tree of life." Trip.com tip: Take the time to climb to the observation deck inside the glass globe. It offers panoramic views of the entire government quarter—the perfect spot for your first photos. 🏛️ Step 1: Water-Green Boulevard (Nurzhol) From Baiterek, head northwest along the pedestrian Nurzhol Boulevard. The architecture here is stunning: mirrored skyscrapers, singing fountains, and modern art installations. In the summer, it's always bustling with life, the smell of coffee fills the air, and street musicians create an incredible atmosphere. 🎪 Step 2: Along Kabanbay Batyr Street to Khan Shatyr Turn toward the world's largest "tent" – the Khan Shatyr Shopping Center, designed by the renowned Norman Foster. Even if you're not planning on shopping, the building's architecture, both inside and out, is worth exploring up close. In front of it lies the cozy Lovers' Park – a great place to take a break on a bench. 🌳 Step 3: Through the Central Park From Khan Shatyr, head towards Turan Avenue and enter the Central City Park. It's a true green oasis in the middle of the steppe metropolis. It's cool, with plenty of shady alleys, attractions, and relaxation areas. Once you've passed through the park, you'll come straight to the river. 🌊 Finish: Yesil (Ishim) River Embankment You've reached your destination! Astana's embankment is where the Left Bank meets the Right Bank, and futurism gives way to cozy classicism.

Baiterek Monument is the main symbol of Kazakhstan's capital and one of the country's most iconic landmarks. Opened in 2002, the monument embodies the Kazakh legend of the world tree, Baiterek, and the mythical bird, Samruk, which lays a golden egg in its branches. ⸻ What is this place The monument's height is 97 meters—a number symbolizing 1997, the year the capital of Kazakhstan was moved to Astana. The structure consists of: · a white metal tower; · a panoramic elevator; · a golden glass sphere at the top; · an observation deck overlooking the city. Today, Baiterek is considered the main architectural symbol of independent Kazakhstan. ⸻ Why you should visit 🌳 The Symbol of Kazakhstan The monument reflects the ancient Turkic legend of the tree of life, Baiterek, and the bird Samruk, which brings sun and life to the world. 🌆 The Best View of Astana The observation deck offers a panoramic view of: · the government quarter; · Nurzhol Boulevard; · modern skyscrapers; · iconic buildings of the capital. ✋ The President's Handprint On the top level, inside the golden sphere, there is a composition featuring the handprint of the first President of Kazakhstan and a viewing platform. ⸻ What to see nearby Nurzhol Boulevard The city's main pedestrian axis, running through the center of the new Astana. Ak Orda Presidential Palace The official residence of the President of Kazakhstan. Khan Shatyr One of the world's most unusual shopping and entertainment centers, shaped like a giant tent. Nur Alem A spherical energy museum built for the EXPO-2017 exhibition. ⸻ How much time you need · going up to the observation deck: 30–40 minutes; · walking around the monument: 1 hour; · exploring the surrounding area: 2–3 hours. ⸻ Best time to visit 🌅 Sunset — soft light and beautiful panoramas of the city. 🌃 Evening — the illumination of the skyscrapers and the monument itself. ☀️ Daytime — the best time to see the modern architecture of the capital. ⸻ What to photograph 📸 The golden sphere of Baiterek 📸 The panorama of Nurzhol Boulevard 📸 Astana's modern skyscrapers 📸 The view of Ak Orda 📸 The night cityscape 📸 The monument itself from various angles along the boulevard ⸻ Is it worth visiting? ✔ Yes, if it's your first time in Astana. ✔ Yes, if you want to see the main symbol of Kazakhstan. ✔ Yes, if you're interested in the best panoramic views of the capital. ➖ If you're short on time, 1–1.5 hours is enough, including a walk along Nurzhol Boulevard.

The Palace of Peace and Reconciliation is one of Astana's most unique and recognizable landmarks, shaped like a glass pyramid. It's also known as the "Pyramid of Peace and Accord." Designed by the renowned British architect Norman Foster, the building opened in 2006. ⸻ What is this place? It's more than just an architectural marvel; it's a multifunctional center featuring: · a venue for international religious congresses; · a concert and opera hall; · exhibition spaces; · a cultural and spiritual hub. The core concept behind the building is to foster dialogue among religions, cultures, and nations. ⸻ Why is it shaped like a pyramid? The pyramid design was chosen for its symbolism: · base = stability and the state · upward narrowing = the pursuit of unity · glass apex = openness to the world The top section is adorned with a stunning stained-glass window depicting doves, the universal symbol of peace. ⸻ What's inside? 🏛 Central Atrium A massive open space inside the pyramid, complete with staircases, galleries, and lush green zones. 🎭 Concert Hall Used for live performances, conferences, and cultural events. 🕊 Hall of Religions This is where international meetings of world religious leaders take place. 🌿 Inner Levels The interior architecture is based on the concept of "ascending"—guiding visitors upward from the exhibition halls to the pinnacle of the pyramid. ⸻ Observation Deck At the very top sits a glass dome offering panoramic views of: · Nurzhol Boulevard · Baiterek Monument · Ak Orda Presidential Palace · the modern heart of downtown Astana ⸻ How much time do you need? · quick look around: 40–60 minutes · guided tour inside: 1.5–2 hours · with a stroll through the park: up to 3 hours ⸻ Best time to visit 🌅 Daytime — best for admiring the building's intricate architecture and structure 🌇 Sunset — beautiful soft lighting and stunning glass reflections 🌃 Evening — spectacular architectural illumination of the building ⸻ What to photograph 📸 The pyramid's striking exterior 📸 The grand central atrium and its staircases 📸 The breathtaking glass dome from above 📸 The sweeping views of Nurzhol Boulevard 📸 The perfect architectural symmetry inside ⸻ What to pair it with The ultimate itinerary for exploring modern Astana: 1. Baiterek Monument 2. Palace of Peace and Reconciliation 3. Khan Shatyr 4. Nur Alem ⸻ Is it worth the trip? ✔ Absolutely, if you're a fan of contemporary architecture ✔ Definitely, if you want to see an iconic symbol of Astana ✔ Yes, if you appreciate extraordinary, world-class buildings ➖ Short on time? Pair it with a visit to the Baiterek Monument—they're located along the same tourist corridor and you can easily see both in 2–3 hours.

The National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan is the largest museum in the country and one of the most modern in Central Asia, having opened its doors in 2014. It is located on Independence Square, forming a cohesive architectural ensemble with the capital's main landmarks. ⸻ What is this place This is a massive museum complex spanning around 74,000 m², comprising several buildings and thematic halls. It houses the complete history of Kazakhstan — from ancient nomadic tribes to today's modern independent nation.  The museum brings together: · archaeology and ancient history · ethnography of the Kazakh people · the "Golden Man" hall · the history of independent Kazakhstan · contemporary art and multimedia ⸻ Why you should visit 🏺 "The Golden Man" One of the country's primary symbols is a Saka warrior clad in golden attire from the Issyk kurgan. This serves as the museum's centerpiece and a national icon of Kazakhstan. 🦴 Ancient history and dinosaurs The exhibits include: · Bronze Age artifacts · discoveries from nomadic cultures · skeletons of ancient animals and dinosaurs 🏙 History of Astana Dedicated halls showcase: · the relocation of the capital · the city's development · scale models of modern Astana · multimedia installations 🎧 Modern museum format The museum is highly tech-forward, featuring: · interactive screens · multimedia halls · holograms and projections · audio guides in multiple languages  ⸻ Main halls · 🏺 Hall of Ancient and Medieval History · 🧿 Hall of Gold (nomadic artifacts) · 🧵 Hall of Ethnography (yurts, traditional clothing, and daily life) · 🏙 Hall of Independent Kazakhstan · 🎨 Hall of Contemporary Art · 🏛 Hall of the History of Astana ⸻ How much time you'll need · quick visit: 1.5–2 hours · standard visit: 2–3.5 hours · in-depth visit: up to 4–5 hours ⸻ Best time to visit 🌅 Daytime — best for clearly seeing the exhibits and details 🌇 Late afternoon/evening — fewer crowds ❄️ Winter — convenient to pair with other downtown locations ⸻ What to photograph 📸 "The Golden Man" 📸 the central atrium 📸 the scale model of modern Astana 📸 multimedia halls 📸 the building's exterior architecture 📸 panoramic views of Independence Square ⸻ What to combine it with The museum is situated right in Astana's main tourist hub: · Palace of Peace and Reconciliation · Hazrat Sultan Mosque · Kazakh Eli Monument · Baiterek Monument ⸻ Is it worth a visit? ✔ Yes, if you want to understand the history of Kazakhstan ✔ Yes, if you are interested in nomadic culture and archaeology ✔ Yes, if it's your first time in Astana ➖ You can skip it if you are very short on time and are only focusing on the city's modern architecture

Astana Botanical Garden is the largest city park in modern Astana and one of the best spots for walking, jogging, and enjoying the outdoors. Despite the capital's young age, the botanical garden has already become a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. ⸻ What is this place? The botanical garden is located in the center of the left bank and occupies a vast area among the city's modern neighborhoods. Here you'll find: · wide walking alleys; · bike paths; · artificial ponds; · themed gardens; · sports areas; · recreation spots. It's not a classic botanical garden with thousands of rare plants, but rather a modern, European-style urban park. ⸻ Why you should visit 🌳 The best place for walking in Astana If you want to take a break from the architecture and museums, this is exactly where you can experience the more peaceful side of the capital. 🏙 Unique city views The park offers beautiful views of Astana's modern residential complexes, business centers, and futuristic buildings. 🚴 Ideal for an active lifestyle Locals come here to: · run; · ride bicycles; · work out; · have picnics. ⸻ What to see 🌿 The Central Alley The main walking area of the park with wide paths and green spaces. ⛲ Fountains In the summer, light and music fountains operate, looking especially beautiful in the evening. 🌸 Floral arrangements During the warm season, the park is decorated with flower beds and ornamental gardens. 🌅 Panoramas of modern Astana Thanks to the open spaces, you can take excellent photos of the city's architecture here. ⸻ How much time you need · short walk: 30–40 minutes; · relaxing break: 1–2 hours; · walk with photography and coffee: 2–3 hours. ⸻ Best time to visit 🌸 May–September — the greenest and most comfortable period. 🌅 Sunset — beautiful views and soft lighting. 🌃 Evening — the path and fountain lights turn on. ❄️ Winter — the park is also popular thanks to its snowy landscapes and wide walking routes. ⸻ What to photograph 📸 The main alleys 📸 Modern skyscrapers against the greenery 📸 Fountains 📸 Floral arrangements 📸 Sunset over the park 📸 Reflections in the ponds ⸻ What to combine it with The perfect left-bank itinerary: 1. Astana Botanical Garden 2. Baiterek Monument 3. Lovers Park 4. Khan Shatyr ⸻ Is it worth a visit? ✔ Yes, if you want to escape the city noise. ✔ Yes, if you love modern parks and walking. ✔ Yes, if you're traveling in the summer or early autumn. ➖ If you're short on time, 1 hour is enough on the way between Baiterek and EXPO.