Quick facts
Hotels in Astana
Airports in Astana
Astana is served by Нұрсұлтан Назарбаев Халықаралық әуежайы, the city's main international airport. The city also has facilities for specialized air activities including skydiving operations. See all airports →
Car Hire in Astana
Astana offers several car hire options for visitors and residents needing vehicle rentals. Companies such as AVIS, RentACars, Rent car by Tulpar, SANATRENT, and Seif Car provide rental services throughout the city, making it convenient to arrange transportation for your stay. See all car hire →
Things to Do in Astana
Astana offers a variety of attractions for visitors, from iconic landmarks like Бәйтерек to cultural venues such as Назарбаев орталығы-2. Whether you're interested in exploring unique sites like Дракон and Жылқылар үйірі or experiencing local attractions like Zur Sultan, the city provides diverse activities for all interests. See all things to do →
Restaurants in Astana
Astana offers a variety of dining experiences across the city. From established establishments like Divan and Paul to contemporary venues such as Peek-a-boo, Selfie, and RIBAMBELLE, there are options to suit different tastes and occasions. See all restaurants →
Swimming Pools in Astana
Spas in Astana
Nightlife in Astana
Astana's nightlife offers a range of venues for evening entertainment, from bars to clubs such as Забери меня, Fusion, and Koko Bar. Whether you're looking for a casual drink or a night out dancing, the capital's nightlife district has options to suit different tastes. See all nightlife →
Bars in Astana
Astana's bar scene offers diverse venues for every taste, from contemporary spots to retro-themed establishments. Whether you're looking for a relaxed drink or lively nightlife, bars like Лигалайф, Ozen, Avtor, Celentano retro bar, and Golpas provide options throughout the city. See all bars →
Cafes in Astana
Astana offers a diverse cafe scene where you can enjoy everything from specialty coffee to crepes and refreshing drinks. Popular options include Degirmen, CrepeCafe, Drinkit, Mado, and MÖKKi, each providing a unique casual dining experience in the city. See all cafes →
Shopping in Astana
Astana offers a range of shopping destinations for visitors and residents alike. From modern shopping malls such as Abu Dhabi Plaza, Керуен, Korkem Center, and Asia Park to specialty retail at Sauran, the city provides diverse retail and entertainment experiences. See all shopping →
Nature & Wildlife in Astana
Astana offers visitors and residents numerous opportunities to connect with nature through its network of parks and gardens. From Жетісу саябағы to Арай саябағы and Корей бақшасы, the city's green spaces provide peaceful retreats for outdoor activities and wildlife observation. See all nature & wildlife →
Climate snapshot
Astana experiences a continental climate with distinct seasons. Winters are cold and lengthy, while summers are warm but brief, with spring and autumn serving as transition periods between temperature extremes.
Interesting Facts About Astana — Weird & Wonderful
- Astana was originally founded as Aqmoly in 1830 and underwent multiple name changes before becoming the capital in 1997.
- The city was temporarily renamed Nur-Sultan in 2019 to honor former president Nursultan Nazarbayev, but reverted to Astana in 2022.
- Astana is situated on the Ishim river in northern Kazakhstan and is self-administering despite being located within the Akmola Region.
- The name 'Astana' means 'capital' in the Kazakh language.
Frequently Asked Questions About Astana
What is the population of Astana?
Astana has a population of 1,622,245 within the city limits, making it the second-largest city in Kazakhstan after Almaty.
When did Astana become the capital of Kazakhstan?
Astana became the capital of Kazakhstan in 1997, replacing Almaty which had served as the national capital previously.
What does 'Astana' mean?
'Astana' means 'capital' in the Kazakh language. The city adopted this name in 1998.
Where is Astana located?
Astana is located on the banks of the Ishim river in the north of Kazakhstan, within the Akmola Region.
What is the timezone in Astana?
Astana operates on Asia/Almaty timezone.