Ultimate Almaty Adventure: A 3-Day Itinerary for You and Your Friends

Day 1: City Exploration

Almaty, Kazakhstan on March 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Central

Start your day with a traditional Kazakh breakfast at Café Central, known for its hearty 'kurt' and fresh 'baursaks'. The café's lovely ambiance is perfect for soaking in local culture.
KZT1000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Green Bazaar

Explore the bustling Green Bazaar, where you can find everything from fresh produce to artisan crafts. It's a great place to interact with locals and sample traditional snacks.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Almaty Central Park

Stroll through Almaty Central Park and enjoy the beautiful gardens and historical monuments. A serene escape right in the city.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Dastarkhan

Savor a delicious lunch at Dastarkhan, known for its traditional dishes like plov and manti. The warm atmosphere makes it a great spot to relax.
KZT2500, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Zenkov Cathedral

Discover the unique wooden Zenkov Cathedral, one of the tallest wooden buildings in the world. The vibrant colors and architectural style are breathtaking.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Kok Tobe Hill

Take a cable car to Kok Tobe Hill for stunning panoramic views of Almaty. Enjoy the landscape and visit the park at the top.
KZT1500, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Cafe Baku

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Cafe Baku, specializing in Azerbaijani cuisine. Their kebabs and dolma are a must-try for any food lover.
KZT3000, 2 hours

8:30PM

Evening Walk in Dostyk Avenue

Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along Dostyk Avenue, filled with shops and cafes, and enjoy the lively night atmosphere of the city.
Free, 1 hour

Day 2: Nature and Skiing

Medeu, Kazakhstan on March 26, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Balu

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at Balu, known for its delicious omelettes and fresh pastries, perfect for an active day ahead.
KZT1300, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Medeu Skating Rink

Experience the famous Medeu Skating Rink, one of the highest in the world. If you're visiting in winter, the skating is phenomenal. Otherwise, you can walk around and enjoy the scenery.
KZT500, 2 hours

11:00AM

Ski at Shymbulak Resort

Head to the nearby Shymbulak resort for skiing or snowboarding. The slopes here cater to all levels, making it an excellent spot for some winter fun.
KZT10000 for ski pass, 4 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Shymbulak Restaurant

Enjoy a satisfying lunch at the Shymbulak Restaurant, offering various local dishes to recharge after skiing. Their hearty soups are perfect for warming up.
KZT4000, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Return to Almaty

Head back to Almaty to relax after a day in the mountains. Optional shopping or exploring the local area.
KZT1500, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The 6th Floor

Enjoy a modern twist on Kazakh cuisine at The 6th Floor, offering a great ambiance and fantastic city views.
KZT5000, 2 hours

8:30PM

Evening at Kafe Gosti

Wrap up your day with drinks at Kafe Gosti, known for its cozy atmosphere and a vast selection of beverages. It's the perfect place to unwind.
KZT2000, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Scenic Wonders

Big Almaty Lake, Kazakhstan on March 27, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mantis

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Mantis, famous for its international dishes and refreshing smoothies, perfect to kick-start your day.
KZT1400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Excursion to Big Almaty Lake

Take a morning excursion to Big Almaty Lake, a stunning turquoise lake surrounded by towering mountains. The drive and views are breathtaking.
KZT2000 for transportation, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch Picnic by the Lake

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the lake's edge. The natural setting makes for a perfect outdoor dining experience.
KZT2000 for picnic supplies, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hike Around Big Almaty Lake

Take a relaxing hike around the lake to enjoy the stunning scenery and nature. It’s a refreshing way to spend your afternoon.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Almaty

Travel back to Almaty and unwind after a fulfilling day in nature. You can explore local shops on the way back.
KZT2000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Vstrecha

Wrap up your trip with dinner at Vstrecha, featuring exquisite local dishes and a warm atmosphere to share stories from your travels.
KZT3500, 2 hours

8:30PM

Nightcap at Craft Beer Bar

End the night with a visit to the Craft Beer Bar, offering a wide selection of local and international brews. A perfect way to celebrate your journey with friends.
KZT2500, 1.5 hours