Free tour

Discover Almaty: A Walk Through History, Culture & Flavors

No ratings yet

Almaty

Duration: 3 hours

Languages: English

Guru: Aigana

Registered on 17 March 2025

Hello! My name is Aigana (pronounced eye-GAH-nah)! I am a certified guide and interpreter, and I’d love to show you around Almaty – a city you can’t help but fall in love with! 💛 With 3 years of experience as a tour guide, I offer walking tours to the most fascinating spots in the city. My goal is not just to share facts but to create an engaging and lively experience, where history feels like a story, and the streets reveal their hidden secrets. ✨ What makes my tours special? ✔️ A dynamic storytelling approach – no boring dates, just fascinating stories and a lively conversation with guests. ✔️ Flexible routes – I know not only the must-see attractions but also hidden gems off the beaten path (upon request). ✔️ A friendly and relaxed atmosphere – my tours are informal and welcoming, so you feel less like a tourist and more like a valued guest. I offer tours in English and would love to help you discover Almaty the way locals see it! See you on the tour!

Free reservation and cancellation

Pay-what-you-want tour, no set price, reservation and cancellation are free

Tour description

Almaty Uncovered: A Journey Through Time, Culture, and Flavors

Discover Almaty’s heart on a walking tour through its history, culture, and flavors. Stroll along its lively pedestrian streets, explore peaceful Panfilov Park, admire the wooden Ascension Cathedral, and dive into local life at the vibrant Green Bazaar — finishing with the sweet aroma of chocolate at the Rakhat confectionery store.

As the morning sun rises over the city, we’ll meet in front of the Abay Opera and Ballet Theatre – a cultural landmark where generations of art and music have flourished. But today, the city itself will become our grand stage.

Our journey begins with a stroll along Panfilov Street, Almaty’s lively pedestrian promenade. Here, street musicians perform, local artists showcase their work, and the city’s daily rhythm unfolds around cozy cafés and leafy trees.

Next, we’ll step into Panfilov Park – a peaceful green oasis filled with history and memory. Within its grounds, we’ll visit the striking Memorial of Glory and admire the Ascension Cathedral, a stunning wooden church that has withstood the test of time.

Nearby stands the Museum of Folk Musical Instruments, housed in one of Almaty’s oldest and most beautiful buildings.

From there, we’ll make our way to the Green Bazaar – the vibrant heart of Almaty’s culinary life. Fragrant spices, sun-ripened fruits, handmade sweets, and local delicacies await, and you’ll have the chance to chat with friendly vendors and experience the flavors of the city.

Before we finish, we’ll stop by the Rakhat Confectionery Store, where the air is rich with the aroma of cocoa and freshly made chocolate – a perfect sweet ending to our walk.

Our tour ends at the bazaar, leaving you with a deeper connection to Almaty – its history, culture, and tastes.

Join me on this unforgettable walk and discover the city’s hidden gems!

Important: This walking tour is conducted in English only to ensure everyone can fully enjoy the experience and follow the stories behind each place we visit.

Highlights

What will we see on this tour?

Meeting point:

6WXW+R6G, Panfilov St, Almaty 050000, Kazakhstan

I will be waiting on the steps in front of the theatre entrance.

Free entry

Panfilov Street

Panfilov Street lies in the very heart of old Almaty and is one of the city’s most beloved pedestrian promenades. Lined with leafy trees, benches, and cozy cafés, it’s the perfect place to slow down, watch local life unfold, and feel the authentic rhythm of the city. As we stroll along this charming street, I’ll share how it has evolved over the years and why it remains such a special part of Almaty’s story.

Free entry

Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen

Panfilov Park is one of Almaty’s most iconic green spaces, located in the historic heart of the city. Shaded by tall trees and crossed by peaceful walking paths, it’s a favorite spot for locals to relax. At its center stands the Memorial of Glory dedicated to the 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, heroes of World War II.

Outside visit

Abay Kazakh State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater

The Abay Opera and Ballet Theatre is one of Almaty’s most beautiful landmarks and the city’s main cultural stage. Built in the 1940s, it combines classical architecture with Kazakh national motifs and hosts performances ranging from traditional Kazakh works to world-famous operas and ballets. Even from the outside, the building’s elegant façade and grand atmosphere make it a highlight of the city center. Outside visit – visitors who wish to attend a performance can purchase tickets separately after the tour

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours do not have a set price, instead, each person gives the guru at the end the amount they consider appropriate (amounts usually range from €15 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).