It opened in 2009 and its capacity is 30,244 seats. It stands out for its retractable roof and for the fact that the grass can be covered very easily, so that other events can take place. The atmosphere created is fantastic and for this reason the Football Federation of Kazakhstan uses it as the “headquarters” of the National team. Among other things, it has been a venue for concerts and hosted the opening ceremony of the Asian Winter Games on January 31, 2011. Opposite the Astana Arena you will see the indoor Barys Arena, a swimming pool, an indoor futsal court, hotels and restaurants.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT TO ASTANA ARENA
*** BUS: 10, 12, 27.
ASTANA: THE CITY WITH ECCENTRIC ARCHITECTURE
In 1999 it won the “City of the World” award and is considered one of the coldest cities in the world. Its imposing and modern buildings, its cosmopolitan feel, its eccentric architecture, its desert and its smiling people will make you fall in love with it. Visit its museums and monuments, while the distinctive architectural buildings you should definitely find time to explore.
Currency: Kazakhstani tenge
Calling Code: +7
Nearest airports from city center: Astana or Nur Sultan Airport (29km), Karaganda Airport (244km), Kokshetau Airport (307km).
TOP – 10 SIGHTSEEING
*** BAITEREK (Baiterek, Astana 010000)
It is the city’s trademark and the 97-meter monument embodies a legend about the magical Samruk bird that has laid an egg with people’s wishes and a mythical tree of life.
*** NUR ALEM MUSEUM OF FUTURE ENERGY (3CQ8+MCR, Astana 010000)
It is an eight-floor building and on each floor you will find different exhibits related to energy (solar, wind, space, bioenergy, kinetic, hydroelectric, future Astana, National Pavilion).
*** PALACE OF PEACE AND RECONCILIATION (Tauelsizdik Ave 57, Astana 010000)
It is a pyramidal building that includes an art gallery, conference and concert hall. It is also a source of inspiration to spread the message that there is no racial and religious discrimination so that all people can coexist harmoniously.
*** NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN (Tauelsizdik Ave 54, Astana 010000)
The history, from prehistoric times to the present, and the culture of the country is fully captured with important exhibits in the museum that opened in 2014.
*** NUR ASTANA MOSQUE (Qabanbay Batyr Ave 36, Astana 010000)
It is one of the largest mosques in Asia and the height of the mosque (40 meters) and minarets (63 meters) symbolizes the Islamic prophet Muhammad.
*** ASTANA GRAND MOSQUE
It was opened in 2022 and is the largest mosque in Kazakhstan, as it is about 70 thousand square meters. The five 130 meter high minarets symbolize the five pillars of Islam.
*** NURZHOL BOULEVARD (ESIL DISTRICT)
It is a huge boulevard and a pedestrian street adorned with beautiful paths bordered by flowers with benches and it is the central axis for the architectural wealth of the city. Cross it and enjoy the shopping and entertainment centers, but also the administrative buildings.
*** HAZRAT SULTAN MOSQUE (Tauelsizdik Ave 48, Astana 020000)
It is an important religious and spiritual attraction of the city that transports you to the civilization of the Eastern world.
*** CENTRAL PARK
It is “rich” in beautiful trees and many sights that will impress you. Take advantage of the great jogging, cross-country skiing and cycling trails, and you’ll even find ice rinks.
*** MUSEUM OF THE FIRST PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN (Abay Ave 11 Beibitshilik Street, Astana 010000)
It was opened in 2005 and you will have the opportunity to see all the work of the first president of the country with unique exhibits.
ΤΗINGS TO DO
*** The Palace of Independence is a place that should get your attention.
*** “Akorda” is the official residence of Kazakhstan and is considered one of the most important attractions.
*** The Astana Opera is an iconic building and worth visiting for a performance.
*** Interesting museums are Saken Seifullin Museum, Has Sanat and Military Historical Museum of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
*** Atameken Ethno-Memorial Map of Kazakhstan is one of the most cherished attractions.
*** An excellent option for your walk is Lovers Park.
FOOD AND DRINK
The traditional cuisine of the city, and by extension Kazakhstan, has been influenced by the nomadic lifestyle. Of course you can find various cuisines such as European, American, Arabic, Caucasian, Turkish and Asian. If you want to taste local delicacies, then try sogym which is smoked horse or bull meat. Also shelpek is a special bread and kazy (horse meat sausage) are two traditional foods. Of course, also try the beshbarmak, which are large pieces of tender horse meat on dumplings. It is worth tasting the lagman which is noodle soup with beef and the pelmeni (dumpling soup).
WHERE TO STAY
You can find hotels and apartments at very good prices in the city center.
FUN AND SHOPPING
*** Khan Shatyr is a building – work of art that you should definitely visit for your shopping.
*** You can also shop at Mega Silk Way, KeruenCity, Astana Mall, Ramstore – Mega, Asia Park, SM Zhannur, Saryarka and Eurasia Shopping Mall.
*** For fun go to Ailand and you will feel like kids again.
*** If you want to see something different and very special, then take a walk in Arbat.
HOW TO GET AROUND
The most beautiful way to get around the city is on foot, by bike or by bus.
CITIES NEAR ASTANA
Major cities close to Astana are Karaganda (212km), Pavlodar (437km), Petropavl (503km), Kostanay (740km).
