Looking for cheap Flights to Almaty, Kazakhstan (ALA) airport?

Explore Almaty, Kazakhstan: History, culture, hidden gems, nearby airports and more. Book cheap flights to Almaty (ALA) now and save $153!

Almaty, accessible via cheap flights to Almaty International Airport (ALA), is Kazakhstan’s vibrant "Southern Capital" and former capital, uniquely defined by its majestic Tian Shan Mountains backdrop, its profound blend of Soviet-era and modern architecture, and its lively Green Bazaar and cultural landmarks like the Zenkov Cathedral, offering an irresistible mix of natural beauty, architectural heritage, and urban energy, making it an essential and profoundly unique travel destination. Nestled at the Tian Shan foothills, Almaty’s dramatic setting fuels adventures like skiing at Shymbulak or skating at Medeu, blending urban life with mountain thrills. Book low-fare flights to Almaty now and save up to $153 to experience this captivating fusion of nature, culture, and history.

Almaty’s history bridges ancient Silk Road roots with Soviet and modern eras. The wooden Zenkov Cathedral, built without nails, dazzles with its colorful domes, while the Green Bazaar brims with beshbarmak and Kazakh spices. The Central State Museum unveils nomadic heritage, and Big Almaty Lake’s turquoise waters offer a serene escape. Stroll Soviet-style boulevards, explore modern Kok-Tobe’s skyline views, or savor kuyrdak in cozy eateries. Almaty’s unparalleled mountain proximity, unique architectural contrasts, and vibrant cultural tapestry make it a must-visit for adventurers, history buffs, and foodies. Secure budget flights to Almaty to immerse in Kazakhstan’s dynamic heart.

Why Visit Almaty, Kazakhstan

Almaty captivates with its Tian Shan vistas, Soviet-modern architecture, and bustling bazaars. Adventure seekers ski Shymbulak, culture lovers explore Zenkov Cathedral, and foodies savor beshbarmak. With inexpensive flights to Almaty, it’s ideal for outdoor thrills, cultural immersion, and urban exploration.

Quick Facts & Highlights

  • Population: Approximately 2.1 million (2023, city); 2.3 million (metro)
  • Founded: 1854 (as Verny)
  • Area: 682 square kilometers
  • Key Highlight: Tian Shan Mountains
  • Notable Event: Almaty Jazz Festival (October)
  • Fun Fact: Zenkov Cathedral built without nails
  • Local Treat: Beshbarmak and baursak
  • Landmark: Green Bazaar

Geographic Location & Climate

Almaty lies in southeast Kazakhstan, 230km west of China’s border. Continental climate: 15-85°F year-round. Hot summers (Jun-Aug); cold winters (Dec-Feb). Annual snowfall 40 inches. Apr-May or Sep-Oct ideal for economical flights to Almaty; Oct for Jazz Festival, Apr for milder hikes.

Vital Statistics & Demographics In Almaty, Kazakhstan

Total Population

Population 2.1 million (2023, city); 2.3 million (metro); steady urban growth.

Age Distribution

Median age 30.2 years; 25.4% under 18, 17.8% 18-24, 38.5% 25-44, 14.3% 45-64, 4.0% 65+.

Ethnic & Racial Composition

Kazakh 60%, Russian 25%, Uyghur 5%, Other (Uzbek, Tatar) 10%.

Gender Breakdown

Males 48.7%, females 51.3%.

Household Types & Sizes

Average household size 3.2; family households 68.5%, non-family 31.5%; 28.7% with children.

Population Growth Trends

1.3% annual growth; driven by migration, economic hub status.

Economy & Living Standards In Almaty, Kazakhstan

Major Industries & Employers

Trade, tech, tourism; top employers:

  • Almaty International Airport, Mailin St 2, Almaty, 050039, Kazakhstan
  • Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Al-Farabi Ave 71, Almaty, 050040, Kazakhstan
  • Halyk Bank, Abay Ave 109B, Almaty, 050008, Kazakhstan
  • Almaty City Administration, Republic Square 4, Almaty, 050026, Kazakhstan
  • KazMunayGas, Dostyk Ave 1, Almaty, 050051, Kazakhstan
  • Eurasian Bank, Zhibek Zholy Ave 135, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Almaty Central Hospital, Zhandosov St 6, Almaty, 050057, Kazakhstan
  • Kazakh Telecom, Furmanov St 240B, Almaty, 050059, Kazakhstan
  • Air Astana, Abay Ave 4/1, Almaty, 050022, Kazakhstan
  • Almaty Towers, Al-Farabi Ave 17, Almaty, 050059, Kazakhstan

Employment Rate & Job Market

Unemployment 4.8%; trade (30%), services, tech dominant.

Median Income & Cost of Living

Median household $12,000; cost 55% US average; median home $100,000.

Poverty Rate & Economic Challenges

Poverty 8.2%; urban housing costs, infrastructure upgrades.

Business Environment & Investment Opportunities

Tech startups, tourism, bazaar retail; eco-tourism ventures growing.

Health & Wellness In Almaty, Kazakhstan

General Health Overview

Life expectancy 73.5 years; improving healthcare, urban pollution issues.

Common Health Issues

Respiratory issues (10%), cardiovascular disease (8%), diabetes (6%).

Fitness Centers & Wellness Studios

  • World Class Gym, Abay Ave 48, Almaty, 050022, Kazakhstan
  • Yoga Almaty, Dostyk Ave 44, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan
  • Fitness Blitz, Furmanov St 148, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Pilates Studio, Al-Farabi Ave 21, Almaty, 050059, Kazakhstan
  • CrossFit Almaty, Zhandosov St 2, Almaty, 050057, Kazakhstan

Mental Health Resources

  • Almaty Central Hospital Psychiatric Ward, Zhandosov St 6, Almaty, 050057, Kazakhstan
  • PsyMed Clinic, Abay Ave 52, Almaty, 050022, Kazakhstan
  • Kazakhstan Crisis Line, National Line
  • Almaty Counseling Center, Dostyk Ave 38, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan
  • Youth Wellness Hub, Zhibek Zholy Ave 125, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan

Public Health Initiatives

Air quality programs, diabetes awareness, mountain fitness campaigns.

Hospitals & Clinics In Almaty, Kazakhstan

Top Hospitals & Emergency Services

  • Almaty Central Hospital, Zhandosov St 6, Almaty, 050057, Kazakhstan
  • Syzganov National Medical Center, Zheltoksan St 51, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Almaty Emergency Services, Abay Ave 68, Almaty, 050022, Kazakhstan
  • Ambulance Almaty, Furmanov St 148, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan

Urgent Care & Walk-In Clinics

  • Interteach Clinic, Dostyk Ave 44, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan
  • Mediker Clinic, Abay Ave 37, Almaty, 050022, Kazakhstan
  • 24hr Pharmacy, Zhibek Zholy Ave 125, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • SOS Medical Center, Furmanov St 187, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan

Specialty Medical Centers

  • Cardiology Center Almaty, Zhandosov St 6, Almaty, 050057, Kazakhstan
  • Pediatric Clinic Syzganov, Zheltoksan St 51, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Eye Clinic Almaty, Dostyk Ave 48, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan

Telehealth & Remote Care Options

Interteach teleconsults, private clinic e-visits, e-prescriptions growing.

Veterinary Services & Pet Care In Almaty, Kazakhstan

Animal Hospitals & Emergency Vets

  • Almaty Veterinary Clinic, Furmanov St 148, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • ZooVet Center, Al-Farabi Ave 21, Almaty, 050059, Kazakhstan

Pet Clinics & Routine Care

  • Pet Care Almaty, Abay Ave 52, Almaty, 050022, Kazakhstan
  • VetMed Clinic, Zhibek Zholy Ave 125, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan

Grooming & Boarding Facilities

  • Paws Grooming, Dostyk Ave 38, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan
  • Almaty Pet Boarding, Zhandosov St 2, Almaty, 050057, Kazakhstan

Pet-Friendly Parks & Trails

  • First President’s Park, Al-Farabi Ave, Almaty, 050059, Kazakhstan
  • Kok-Tobe Hill, Dostyk Ave 104B, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan
  • Central Park of Culture, Gogol St 1, Almaty, 050002, Kazakhstan

Local Government & Public Services In Almaty, Kazakhstan

City Hall and Administrative Offices

  • Almaty City Administration, Republic Square 4, Almaty, 050026, Kazakhstan
  • Almaly District Office, Zhibek Zholy Ave 135, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan

County Government Services

  • Almaty Region Akimat, Abay Ave 68, Almaty, 050022, Kazakhstan
  • Ministry of Internal Affairs, Furmanov St 187, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan

Public Records and Licensing

  • Almaty Civil Registry, Zheltoksan St 51, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Land Registry Kazakhstan, Dostyk Ave 44, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan

Planning and Zoning Departments

  • Almaty Urban Planning, Republic Square 4, Almaty, 050026, Kazakhstan
  • Kazakhstan Development Authority, Abay Ave 37, Almaty, 050022, Kazakhstan

Tax and Revenue Offices

  • Kazakhstan Tax Committee, Zhandosov St 6, Almaty, 050057, Kazakhstan
  • Customs Service Kazakhstan, Mailin St 2, Almaty, 050039, Kazakhstan

Police, Fire, and Emergency Services

  • Almaty Police Department, Abay Ave 68, Almaty, 050022, Kazakhstan
  • Almaty Fire Service, Furmanov St 148, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Emergency Services Kazakhstan, Zheltoksan St 51, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan

Courts and Legal Aid

  • Almaty City Court, Zhandosov St 2, Almaty, 050057, Kazakhstan
  • Legal Aid Kazakhstan, Dostyk Ave 38, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan

Public Works and Utilities

  • Almaty Su Water Company, Al-Farabi Ave 21, Almaty, 050059, Kazakhstan
  • Almaty Power Stations, Zhandosov St 6, Almaty, 050057, Kazakhstan

Voter Registration and Civic Engagement

  • Kazakhstan Electoral Commission, Abay Ave 37, Almaty, 050022, Kazakhstan
  • Citizen Service Center, Zhibek Zholy Ave 125, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan

Current Government Representatives

Mayor of Almaty: Erbolat Dosaev, represents city.

Education & Libraries In Almaty, Kazakhstan

Public School Districts

Managed by Ministry of Education; 500+ primary/secondary schools in metro area.

Public School Names and Full Addresses

  • School No. 25, Abay Ave 48, Almaty, 050022, Kazakhstan
  • Lyceum No. 8, Zhibek Zholy Ave 135, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • School No. 56, Furmanov St 148, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Almaly High School, Dostyk Ave 44, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan
  • Gymnasium No. 15, Zhandosov St 2, Almaty, 050057, Kazakhstan

Charter and Private Schools

  • Haileybury Almaty, Al-Farabi Ave 36, Almaty, 050059, Kazakhstan
  • International School Almaty, Zhandosov St 6, Almaty, 050057, Kazakhstan

Colleges and Universities

  • Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Al-Farabi Ave 71, Almaty, 050040, Kazakhstan; Sciences, Humanities
  • KIMEP University, Abay Ave 4/2, Almaty, 050022, Kazakhstan; Business
  • Satbayev University, Satpaev St 22A, Almaty, 050013, Kazakhstan; Engineering

Public Libraries and Learning Centers

  • National Library of Kazakhstan, Abay Ave 14, Almaty, 050022, Kazakhstan
  • Almaly Public Library, Zhibek Zholy Ave 125, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Pushkin Library, Dostyk Ave 38, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan

Flights & Travel Logistics In Almaty, Kazakhstan

Best Time to Book Flights

Book 2-3 months early for best flight deals to Almaty; Apr-May or Sep-Oct for low-cost airfare to Almaty; avoid Dec-Feb peak ski season.

Airlines That Serve Almaty, Kazakhstan

ALA served by Air Astana (Asia, Europe), Turkish Airlines (Istanbul), Lufthansa (Germany), Emirates (Dubai), Qatar Airways (Doha), Uzbekistan Airways (Tashkent), Aeroflot (Moscow), FlyArystan (Central Asia), SCAT Airlines (Kazakhstan), China Southern (Beijing), Korean Air (Seoul), Asiana Airlines (Seoul).

Nearby Airports and Alternatives

ALA primary (15km northeast); no major alternative airports nearby.

Transportation After Arrival

Buses $0.50-1 to center (30min); taxis $5-10; rentals $30/day at ALA.

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Use KZT, try beshbarmak at Green Bazaar, book Shymbulak lift tickets online, dress for cold winters, respect Kazakh customs. Secure flight bargains to Almaty.

Where to Stay In Almaty, Kazakhstan

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

  • Apple Hostel, Zhandosov St 2, Almaty, 050057, Kazakhstan
  • Almaty Backpackers, Furmanov St 148, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • City Hotel Tien Shan, Abay Ave 52, Almaty, 050022, Kazakhstan

Boutique Hotels and Inns

  • D’Rami Boutique Hotel, Dostyk Ave 44, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan
  • Renion Residence, Al-Farabi Ave 21, Almaty, 050059, Kazakhstan
  • Kazzhol Hotel, Gogol St 127/1, Almaty, 050004, Kazakhstan

Luxury Resorts and Spas

  • Rixos Almaty, Seifullin Ave 506/99, Almaty, 050012, Kazakhstan
  • InterContinental Almaty, Zheltoksan St 181, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Ritz-Carlton Almaty, Al-Farabi Ave 77/7, Almaty, 050040, Kazakhstan

Family-Friendly Lodging

  • Kazakhstan Hotel, Dostyk Ave 52/2, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan
  • Grand Sapphire Hotel, Abay Ave 37, Almaty, 050022, Kazakhstan
  • Best Western Plus Atakent, Timiryazev St 42, Almaty, 050057, Kazakhstan

Vacation Rentals and Extended Stays

  • Airbnb Almaly Flats, Zhibek Zholy Ave 125, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • VRBO Kok-Tobe Homes, Dostyk Ave 104B, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan
  • Almaty Suites, Furmanov St 148, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan

Getting Around In Almaty, Kazakhstan

Public Transportation Overview

Buses $0.40-0.80; metro $0.50; taxis $0.30/km.

Car Rentals and Ride Shares

Rentals $25-45/day; Yandex Go available; taxis $0.30/km.

Walkability and Bike-Friendly Areas

Almaly walkable (70/100); bikes $2/day; Kok-Tobe, Central Park bike-friendly.

Parking Tips and Local Driving Rules

Paid parking $0.20-0.50/hr; downtown congestion; Kazakh road rules apply.

Natural Wonders & Outdoor Activities In Almaty, Kazakhstan

National Parks and Scenic Areas

Ile-Alatau National Park (20km south); Kolsai Lakes (280km east).

Hiking, Biking, and Nature Trails

  • Medeu Valley Trail, Medeu, Almaty, 050020, Kazakhstan
  • Big Almaty Lake Path, Ile-Alatau National Park, Almaty, 050065, Kazakhstan
  • Shymbulak Ski Trails, Shymbulak, Almaty, 050020, Kazakhstan
  • Kok-Tobe Hill Path, Dostyk Ave 104B, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan

Wildlife Viewing

Snow leopards, ibex in Ile-Alatau; falcons at Kolsai.

Lakes, Rivers, and Water Activities

  • Big Almaty Lake, Ile-Alatau National Park, Almaty, 050065, Kazakhstan
  • Kolsai Lakes Kayaking, 280km east, Kolsai, Kazakhstan
  • Kapchagay Reservoir, 70km north, Kapchagay, Kazakhstan

Camping and RV Parks

  • Ile-Alatau Campground, Medeu, Almaty, 050020, Kazakhstan
  • Kolsai Lakes Camp, 280km east, Kolsai, Kazakhstan

Seasonal Outdoor Adventures

Winter skiing at Shymbulak, spring lake hikes, autumn forest trails.

History & Heritage In Almaty, Kazakhstan

Founding and Historical Background

Founded 1854 as Verny, a Russian fort; became Kazakhstan’s capital until 1997. Ancient Silk Road hub for nomadic tribes.

Major Disasters and Events

1911 earthquake damaged Verny; 1918 Bolshevik takeover; 1991 independence from USSR; 2022 Almaty protests over fuel prices.

Recovery Efforts for Recent Disaster

Post-2022: Economic reforms, cultural festivals, and tourism campaigns to stabilize and boost growth.

Ancient History

Almaty’s region hosted Scythian and Saka nomads (5th century BCE), leaving kurgan burial mounds. As a Silk Road stop, it thrived with Sogdian traders. Russian colonization in 1854 established Verny, with the 1887 earthquake prompting Zenkov Cathedral’s construction. Soviet rule from 1920s reshaped the city with wide boulevards and concrete towers, evident in Republic Square.

Recent History

Almaty was Kazakhstan’s capital from 1929 to 1997, hosting Soviet institutions. Post-1991 independence, it remained the economic hub, with modern landmarks like Almaty Towers. The 2000s saw tech and tourism booms, while 2022 protests highlighted economic tensions. Almaty’s role in hosting 2023 Central Asian summits underscores its regional influence, with cultural events like the Almaty Film Festival boosting its global profile.

Historical Landmarks

  • Zenkov Cathedral, Panfilov Park, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Republic Square, Abay Ave 68, Almaty, 050022, Kazakhstan
  • Green Bazaar, Zhibek Zholy Ave 53, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Abai Opera House, Kabanbay Batyr St 110, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Golden Warrior Monument, Republic Square, Almaty, 050026, Kazakhstan

Museums and Cultural Centers

  • Central State Museum, Samal-1 44, Almaty, 050059, Kazakhstan
  • Museum of Kazakh Folk Instruments, Panfilov St 24, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • A. Kasteyev Art Museum, Satpaev St 22/1, Almaty, 050040, Kazakhstan
  • Almaty History Museum, Kabanbay Batyr St 108, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Kok-Tobe Cultural Center, Dostyk Ave 104B, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan

Local Folklore and Legends

Nomadic warrior tales, Tian Shan yeti myths, Silk Road ghost stories.

Indigenous and Pioneer History

Saka nomads; Russian settlers; Soviet architects; Kazakh traders.

Prominent Public and Private Personalities In Almaty, Kazakhstan

  • Nursultan Nazarbayev: First president, shaped modern Almaty
  • Dimash Kudaibergen: Global pop star, cultural icon
  • Abai Qunanbaiuly: Poet, national hero

Arts & Culture In Almaty, Kazakhstan

Performing Arts Venues

  • Abai Opera House, Kabanbay Batyr St 110, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Palace of the Republic, Dostyk Ave 56, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan
  • Almaty Theatre, Al-Farabi Ave 30, Almaty, 050040, Kazakhstan

Art Galleries and Exhibitions

  • A. Kasteyev Art Museum, Satpaev St 22/1, Almaty, 050040, Kazakhstan
  • Tengri Umai Gallery, Zhibek Zholy Ave 135, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Oner Art Gallery, Dostyk Ave 44, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan

Local Artists and Artisans

Felt rug makers, dombra musicians, contemporary painters.

Cultural Festivals and Events

  • Almaty Jazz Festival, Republic Square, Almaty, 050026, Kazakhstan (Oct)
  • Nauryz Festival, Panfilov Park, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan (Mar)
  • Almaty Film Festival, Al-Farabi Ave 17, Almaty, 050059, Kazakhstan (Sep)
  • Apple Festival, Zhibek Zholy Ave, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan (Aug)

Music Scene and Live Performances

  • Motor Club, Furmanov St 148, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Almaty Jazz Café, Zhibek Zholy Ave 125, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Kok-Tobe Concerts, Dostyk Ave 104B, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan

Food & Drink In Almaty, Kazakhstan

Restaurants by Cuisine

  • Kazakh - Qazan, Dostyk Ave 44, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan; Beshbarmak
  • Street Food - Green Bazaar, Zhibek Zholy Ave 53, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan; Shashlik
  • International - Dastarkhan, Al-Farabi Ave 17, Almaty, 050059, Kazakhstan; Fusion
  • Vegetarian - Govinda’s, Furmanov St 148, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Bakery - Degirmen, Abay Ave 48, Almaty, 050022, Kazakhstan; Baursak
  • Coffee - Cafe 4A, Dostyk Ave 38, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan
  • Central Asian - Navat, Zhandosov St 2, Almaty, 050057, Kazakhstan; Plov
  • Grill - Tandoor, Zhibek Zholy Ave 125, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan; Kuyrdak

Farm-to-Table and Local Ingredients

Green Bazaar: Horse meat, kumis, apples; local dairy.

Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries

  • Line Brew, Furmanov St 187, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Arba Wine Tasting, Al-Farabi Ave 21, Almaty, 050059, Kazakhstan
  • Kumis Stalls, Zhibek Zholy Ave 53, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan

Street Food and Casual Dining

  • Panfilov Street Food, Panfilov St 24, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Arbat Food Stalls, Zhibek Zholy Ave 125, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Almaly Night Market, Abay Ave 48, Almaty, 050022, Kazakhstan

Vegan, Vegetarian, and Dietary Options

Vegan plov, dairy-free baursak, gluten-free lagman widely available.

Shopping & Leisure In Almaty, Kazakhstan

Local Boutiques and Artisan Shops

  • Green Bazaar Crafts, Zhibek Zholy Ave 53, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Almaty Felt Shop, Dostyk Ave 44, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan
  • Arbat Artisan Stalls, Zhibek Zholy Ave 125, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan

Malls and Shopping Districts

  • Esentai Mall, Al-Farabi Ave 77/8, Almaty, 050040, Kazakhstan
  • Mega Alma-Ata, Rozybakiev St 247A, Almaty, 050060, Kazakhstan
  • Dostyk Plaza, Samal-2 111, Almaty, 050051, Kazakhstan

Antique Stores and Markets

  • Green Bazaar Antiques, Zhibek Zholy Ave 53, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Arbat Vintage Stalls, Zhibek Zholy Ave 125, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan

Souvenirs and Specialty Goods

  • Kazakh Felt Rugs, Zhibek Zholy Ave 53, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Apple Crafts, Panfilov St 24, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Nomad Jewelry, Dostyk Ave 44, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan

Events & Entertainment In Almaty, Kazakhstan

Annual Festivals and Parades

  • Almaty Jazz Festival, Republic Square, Almaty, 050026, Kazakhstan (Oct)
  • Nauryz Festival, Panfilov Park, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan (Mar)
  • Almaty Film Festival, Al-Farabi Ave 17, Almaty, 050059, Kazakhstan (Sep)
  • Independence Day Parade, Republic Square, Almaty, 050026, Kazakhstan (Dec 16)

Farmers Markets and Local Gatherings

  • Green Bazaar Daily, Zhibek Zholy Ave 53, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Arbat Weekend Market, Zhibek Zholy Ave 125, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan

Sports Events and Recreational Leagues

  • Almaty Marathon, Republic Square, Almaty, 050026, Kazakhstan (Apr)
  • Kazakhstan Premier League, Almaty Ortalyk Stadion, Abay Ave 48, Almaty, 050022, Kazakhstan
  • Almaty Cycling Club, First President’s Park, Almaty, 050059, Kazakhstan

Holiday Celebrations and Seasonal Fun

  • Orthodox Christmas Markets, Panfilov Park, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan
  • Nauryz Spring Fest, Republic Square, Almaty, 050026, Kazakhstan
  • Victory Day Events, Panfilov Park, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan (May 9)

Nearby Destinations In Almaty, Kazakhstan

Popular Day Trips

  • Charyn Canyon (200km): Red rock gorges, hiking
  • Kolsai Lakes (280km): Turquoise lakes, camping
  • Tamgaly Tas (170km): Ancient petroglyphs

Hidden Gems in Almaty, Kazakhstan

  • Zenkov Cathedral Courtyard: A serene plaza with colorful domes, flower gardens, and local musicians. Features weekly cultural talks, hidden Soviet-era relics, and baursak vendors. 1km from Green Bazaar. Located at Panfilov Park, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan.
  • Green Bazaar Spice Alley: A vibrant alley with heaps of saffron, dried fruits, and Kazakh rugs. Features hidden 19th-century signs, live dombra music, and beshbarmak stalls. 500m from Zenkov Cathedral. Located at Zhibek Zholy Ave 53, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan.
  • Kok-Tobe Secret Lookout: A secluded vantage point with Tian Shan views, cable car rides, and local artisans. Features hidden nomad carvings, evening folk shows, and kumis carts. 3km from city center. Located at Dostyk Ave 104B, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan.
  • First President’s Park Grove: A quiet grove with fountains, apple trees, and shaded benches. Features local art displays, hidden Scythian relics, and shashlik stalls. 4km from Downtown. Located at Al-Farabi Ave, Almaty, 050059, Kazakhstan.
  • Arbat Art Corner: A lively corner with street murals, felt craft stalls, and cozy cafes. Features weekly painting workshops, hidden Soviet mosaics, and tea vendors. 1km from Green Bazaar. Located at Zhibek Zholy Ave 125, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan.
  • Medeu Valley Path: A tranquil trail with alpine views, wildflowers, and mountain streams. Features guided eco-tours, hidden nomad trails, and local honey stalls. 15km from city center. Located at Medeu, Almaty, 050020, Kazakhstan.
  • Central State Museum Courtyard: A peaceful courtyard with ancient kurgan replicas, shaded trees, and city views. Features hidden Silk Road artifacts, local history talks, and coffee vendors. 2km from Downtown. Located at Samal-1 44, Almaty, 050059, Kazakhstan.
  • Panfilov Park Hidden Bench: A secluded spot with Soviet statues, birch trees, and quiet paths. Features local storytelling, hidden 1920s inscriptions, and baursak carts. 1km from Zenkov Cathedral. Located at Panfilov St 24, Almaty, 050000, Kazakhstan.

Scenic Drives and Routes

  • Tian Shan Mountain Road: Winding drive past alpine meadows, glaciers, and nomad camps. Spring beauty. 20km south, Medeu, Almaty, Kazakhstan.
  • Charyn Canyon Route: Scenic drive through red rock gorges and steppe landscapes. Autumn charm. 200km east, Charyn, Kazakhstan.
  • Kapchagay Lake Road: Route to turquoise reservoir past orchards and villages. Summer allure. 70km north, Kapchagay, Kazakhstan.

Regional Attractions Worth Visiting

  • Turkistan, 800km west; Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum
  • Lake Balkhash, 600km northeast; fishing, beaches
  • Astana, 1,200km north; modern capital, Bayterek Tower

Audience-Specific Guides In Almaty, Kazakhstan

Family Travel Tips

Kok-Tobe amusement, Green Bazaar tours, Big Almaty Lake picnics, stay Kazakhstan Hotel with cheap travel deals to Almaty.

Solo Traveler Highlights

Green Bazaar shopping, Arbat nightlife, Shymbulak skiing, Apple Hostel with affordable travel tickets to Almaty.

Romantic Getaways

Rixos Almaty dinners, Kok-Tobe sunsets, Medeu Valley strolls, Qazan restaurant with cheapest flights available to Almaty.

Business Travel Essentials

Almaty Towers conferences, Dostyk Ave dining, quick ALA access with low-priced flights to Almaty.

Accessible Travel Resources

Ramps at major sites, audio guides, wheelchair-friendly taxis at hotels.

Natural Resources In Almaty, Kazakhstan

  • Tian Shan Glaciers: Pristine water sources fueling Almaty’s rivers and agriculture.
  • Apple Orchards: Famous Almaty apples, driving local markets and exports.
  • Oil and Gas Fields: Nearby reserves supporting Kazakhstan’s energy sector.
  • Alpine Meadows: Biodiverse ecosystems in Ile-Alatau, ideal for eco-tours with discount flights to Almaty!

Plan your sustainable adventure with discount flights to Almaty and discover these natural wonders firsthand.

Article Published by farelab.com on , Last Modified on . Content subject to change at any time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why visit Almaty, Kazakhstan?

Almaty captivates with its Tian Shan vistas, Soviet-modern architecture, and bustling bazaars. Adventure seekers ski Shymbulak, culture lovers explore Zenkov Cathedral, and foodies savor beshbarmak. With inexpensive flights to Almaty, it’s ideal for outdoor thrills, cultural immersion, and urban exploration.

How to get a discounted airfare on Airline flight tickets to Almaty airport, Kazakhstan?

Recent studies reveal that booking flights on Sundays for Tuesday departures, 7 to 14 weeks in advance, can save you approximately $153.

Which Airlines fly to Almaty, Kazakhstan (ALA)?

Among major global airlines, ALA served by Air Astana (Asia, Europe), Turkish Airlines (Istanbul), Lufthansa (Germany), Emirates (Dubai), Qatar Airways (Doha), Uzbekistan Airways (Tashkent), Aeroflot (Moscow), FlyArystan (Central Asia), SCAT Airlines (Kazakhstan), China Southern (Beijing), Korean Air (Seoul), Asiana Airlines (Seoul).

What could I do to get this flight discount to Almaty, Kazakhstan (ALA)?

The best approach is to use the flight search tool on this page, where we will find the best and cheapest airline flights for your trip, which may include cheaper alternate dates and nearby airport options.

What is the nearest airport to Almaty, Kazakhstan?

The nearest airport to Almaty, Kazakhstan is Bishkek Manas Airport (FRU) - Air Distance 131 Miles, which may offer cheaper flights and alternate date options depending on departure city and season.

Almaty Airport (ALA) - Kazakhstan
Almaty
Kazakhstan
Coordinates: 43°21'07.00"N (43.3519444444444), 77°02'26.00"E (77.0405555555556)
IATA Code: ALA
ICAO Code: UAAA
Airport Type: Public
Runway Surface: Paved-Concrete
Runway Length: 14400 Feet
Runway Elevation: 2234 Feet
Region: Russian Federation
View Almaty Airport (ALA) - Kazakhstan on Google Maps
Book and Save USD $153