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Quick facts
Hotels in Astana
Airports in Astana
Astana is served by Нұрсұлтан Назарбаев Халықаралық әуежайы, the main international airport connecting the capital to destinations worldwide. The city offers essential air travel infrastructure for visitors and residents. See all airports →
Car Hire in Astana
Astana offers several car hire options to suit your travel needs. Major rental services including AVIS, Rent car by Tulpar, RentACars, SANATRENT, and Seif Car operate in the city, providing convenient vehicle rental solutions for exploring Kazakhstan. See all car hire →
Things to Do in Astana
Astana offers visitors a range of attractions to explore, from iconic landmarks like Бәйтерек to cultural institutions and entertainment venues. Whether you're interested in modern architecture, museums, or local attractions, there's something to discover in Kazakhstan's capital. See all things to do →
Restaurants in Astana
Astana offers a diverse dining scene with restaurants catering to various tastes and cuisines. Whether you're looking for local flavours or international fare, establishments like Divan, Selfie, RIBAMBELLE, Paul, and Атлас provide options for visitors and residents alike. See all restaurants →
Swimming Pools in Astana
Spas in Astana
Nightlife in Astana
Astana offers a dynamic nightlife scene with venues including Забери меня, Fusion, and Koko Bar, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Whether you're seeking cocktails, dancing, or socializing, the city's nightlife options provide evening entertainment across various styles. See all nightlife →
Bars in Astana
Astana offers a diverse selection of bars where visitors and locals can enjoy drinks and socialise. Whether you're looking for a retro atmosphere at Celentano retro bar, a casual spot at Ozen or Avtor, or other venues like Лигалайф and Golpas, the city's bar scene caters to various tastes and preferences. See all bars →
Cafes in Astana
Shopping in Astana
Astana offers diverse shopping experiences across contemporary malls and shopping centers. From Abu Dhabi Plaza and Керуен to Korkem Center and Asia Park, the city provides modern retail destinations for visitors and residents alike. See all shopping →
Nature & Wildlife in Astana
Astana offers several parks and green spaces where visitors can experience nature and outdoor recreation. Notable parks include Жетісу саябағы, Сызықтық саябақ, Арай саябағы, and Корей бақшасы, providing accessible areas for walks and leisure activities throughout the city. See all nature & wildlife →
Climate snapshot
Astana experiences a continental climate with distinct seasonal variations typical of northern Kazakhstan. The city has cold winters and warm summers, with notable temperature fluctuations between seasons.
Interesting Facts About Astana — Weird & Wonderful
- The city was originally founded as Aqmoly in 1830 and has been renamed multiple times—Akmolinsk, Tselinograd, and Aqmola—before becoming Astana in 1998, a name meaning 'capital' in Kazakh.
- Astana replaced Almaty as Kazakhstan's national capital in 1997, marking a significant shift in the country's administrative centre.
- The city lies on the banks of the Ishim River and is self-administering despite being located within the Akmola Region.
- In 2019, Astana was renamed Nur-Sultan to honour former president Nursultan Nazarbayev, though it reverted to the name Astana in 2022.
Frequently Asked Questions About Astana
What is the currency used in Astana?
The currency used in Astana and throughout Kazakhstan is the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT).
What language is spoken in Astana?
Kazakh is the official language spoken in Astana, as indicated by the name 'Astana' meaning 'capital' in Kazakh.
Is Astana larger than Almaty?
No, Astana is the second-largest city in Kazakhstan after Almaty, though Astana is the capital city.
When did Astana become the capital of Kazakhstan?
Astana became the national capital in 1997, replacing Almaty in this role.
What geographic features define Astana's location?
Astana lies on the banks of the Ishim River in the north of Kazakhstan and is located within the Akmola Region.