Astana Between Futuristic Architecture and History
Accommodation in Astana
Astana combines a cityscape shaped by futuristic architecture with an old town, parks and distinctive cultural venues. The Ishim River divides the city into a left bank and a right bank. These different cityscapes offer a first point of reference as you consider which side of Astana best suits your travel interests.
Der Baiterek-Turm als prägendes Symbol der modernen Hauptstadt Astana.
Photo: Matti Blume via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA
Two Banks, Different Cityscapes
The left bank is described as an area of futuristic buildings, wide avenues and unusual entertainment options. The right bank is considered the old town, with numerous historic buildings and landmarks from the 19th century. If you are interested in modern architecture and a new cityscape, you can take the left bank as a starting point; if older buildings interest you, look to the old town. When searching for a holiday apartment, this distinction is a useful guide based on your own travel interests.
A striking landmark is the Baiterek Monument. Its name means “Tree of Life” and refers to the worldview of the ancient nomads. The Triumph Arch in Astana was also built in 2011 to mark the 20th anniversary of Kazakhstan’s independence. Bas-reliefs on its walls depict important moments in the country’s history.
Green Spaces and Paths in City Life
If you would also like to spend time outdoors during your stay, Central Park has walking paths, cycling and jogging trails, children’s playgrounds, recreation areas and cafés. Concerts, festivals and sporting events take place there in summer. Depending on your interests, a visit to the park can involve exercise, a break or an event; the facilities mentioned range from paths for various activities to places to relax.
The Presidential Park also offers walking and cycling paths, as well as fountains and recreation areas. It also has sports grounds and outdoor exercise equipment. This differs from what Central Park offers: in addition to paths and places to relax, the Presidential Park specifically has sports areas and exercise equipment. If you are planning to spend active time outdoors, you can take these features into account when choosing where to go.
The river promenade offers another city scene, with views of the river, street musicians, artists and children’s attractions. There is also a fish-shaped bridge for cyclists and pedestrians. The promenade thus combines river views with public art and entertainment, while the bridge itself has an unusual shape.
Culture, Architecture and Discovery
The National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan is the largest museum in the country. It presents Kazakhstan’s history and culture from ancient times to the present day. The Astana Art Museum displays works by Kazakh artists, sculptors and craftspeople, as well as classics of world painting. The two museums have different focuses: the National Museum spans the history and culture of the country, while the Art Museum focuses on fine art and crafts.
Astana Opera is also a prominent cultural venue. The state opera and ballet theatre opened in 2013 at the initiative of Nursultan Nazarbayev, the First President of the Republic of Kazakhstan. It is considered the largest theatre in Central Asia. The building combines classical traditions of world architecture with distinctly Kazakh design elements; its technical facilities meet international standards. Both the performing arts and the building’s architecture are highlights here.
The Palace of Peace and Reconciliation stands out for its pyramid shape. It symbolises the unity of different religions, ethnic groups and cultures, as well as the openness of the people and the state to the world. Along with Baiterek and the Triumph Arch, it offers another perspective on Kazakhstan’s symbolism and history.
City Excursions and Finding Your Bearings
Khan Shatyr shopping and entertainment centre combines shopping and dining options with a children’s play centre and a swimming pool beneath its dome. Wodno-Seleny Boulevard, now called Nurzhol Boulevard, leads to the centre in Astana. This adds options for different interests, including activities for children, to the choice of cultural and park visits.
Whether you are most interested in the old town, modern cityscapes, museums, performing arts or green spaces during your stay, Astana’s riverbanks and diverse city offerings can help you decide what to focus on. When looking for a holiday apartment, you can first consider which part of the city and what kind of excursions matter most to you. For help finding your way around the destination, see the subregion Astana.
For the broader travel overview: Kazakhstan.
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