Introduction

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Almaty nestles beneath the Zailiysky Alatau peaks and combines leafy boulevards with alpine adventures. Before you depart, let an AI flight finder track real-time airfares and secure the most cost-effective route to Almaty International Airport, so you arrive with ease and budget intact.

Day 1: Historic Centre and Panfilov Park

You begin in the heart of the city, wandering from Republic Square past impressive Soviet-era buildings to Panfilov Park. Beneath towering pines, the colorful Zenkov Cathedral shelters in contrasts of wood and paint. Later, you browse spices and samsa at the Green Bazaar, sampling mountain-grown teas before settling into a cozy guesthouse. Your AI travel assistant will arrange your airport pickup and evening dinner reservation, leaving you free to soak in Almaty’s welcoming atmosphere.

Day 2: Medeu Rink and Kok Tobe Hill

Morning
Ride out to Medeu, the world’s highest ice-skating rink, and enjoy a brisk skate beneath snow-capped peaks.

Afternoon
Take the cable car to Kok Tobe, where a hillside park, small zoo and Beatles monument await.

Evening
Sip tea at the Kok Tobe restaurant and watch the city lights twinkle below before returning to town.

Day 3: Shymbulak Ski Resort or Summer Trek

Morning
Head up to Shymbulak, where winter visitors carve fresh powder and summer hikers follow trails carpeted in wildflowers.

Afternoon
Enjoy lunch with a view at the summit-level café, then explore nearby alpine paths or relax in the resort spa.

Evening
Return to Almaty for dinner at a modern bistro in the Alfarabi District.

Day 4: Big Almaty Lake Excursion

Morning
Drive the scenic mountain road to Big Almaty Lake, where turquoise waters mirror the jagged skyline.

Afternoon
Picnic on the lakeshore, then walk the circumnavigating trail to spot ibex and wild orchids.

Evening
Stop at a roadside café on the descent for shashlik before heading back to the city

Day 5: Charyn Canyon Adventure

Morning
Depart early for Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan’s “Grand Canyon,” and hike the Valley of Castles formation.

Afternoon
Enjoy lunch under the cottonwood trees and explore side trails along the riverbank.

Evening
Return to Almaty in time for a restorative bathhouse visit near Dostyk Avenue.

Day 6: Green Bazaar and Cultural Immersion

Morning
Browse spices, produce and pastries at the Green Bazaar, then sample kurt cheese and samsa.

Afternoon
Visit the Museum of Musical Instruments and stroll the adjacent city park.

Evening
Attend a performance at the Abay Opera House, tickets reserved in advance for the best seats.

Day 7: Leisure, Shopping and Departure

Morning
Wander the tree-lined avenues of the Arbat pedestrian street, popping into boutiques and craft stalls.

Afternoon
Enjoy a final meal of plov at a family-run restaurant, then collect your luggage.

Evening
Board your transfer to the airport, leaving Almaty with vivid memories of mountains, markets and modern city life.

Conclusion
Seven days in Almaty let you balance urban exploration and alpine escapes. From skating at Medeu and hiking Charyn Canyon to sampling local pastries and attending cultural performances, each day offers a new facet of this vibrant city. With an AI flight finder securing your journey’s start, you can focus on the experiences that make Almaty truly unforgettable.