Astana’s skyline and spirit reflect Kazakhstan’s bold vision for the future. This young, vibrant capital is filled with innovative architecture, modern high-rises, and dynamic public spaces that capture its forward-looking energy.
Among the best 10 things to do in Astana are visiting its striking landmarks and unique entertainment complexes. The Bayterek Monument and Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, both designed by Norman Foster, define the city center, while the Atameken Ethno-Memorial Complex offers a miniature journey across Kazakhstan. The Duman complex features shops, cinemas, a seaquarium with over 2,000 marine creatures, and a museum of miniatures. Sports enthusiasts can head to the 30,000-seat Astana Arena.
The UFO-shaped Astana Circus, glowing at night, is another standout - its modern interior hosts everything from aerial acts to ice shows. Meanwhile, the city’s pedestrian areas are dotted with fountains, sculptures, and contemporary installations that add character and charm.
If you're wondering what to do in Astana, this mix of modern attractions and cultural spaces offers something for every interest.
Bayterek
Where should you begin your exploration of Astana? Naturally, with Bayterek – the capital’s most iconic symbol. This monument embodies the Kazakh people’s concept of the universe, with its structure representing the three cosmic realms: the underground, earthly, and heavenly worlds. At 4.5 meters below ground level, the lower tier houses a café, aquariums, and the “Bayterek” mini-gallery. Visiting Bayterek is one of the essential things to do in Astana, offering both symbolic meaning and panoramic views of the city.
Museum of the First President of Kazakhstan
The Museum of the First President of Kazakhstan leaves a lasting impression with its richly preserved interiors, personal belongings, official documents, gifts, and works of decorative and applied art. Exploring its diverse collection is among the more reflective things to do in Astana, offering insight into the country’s recent history through the legacy of its first head of state.
Palace of Peace and Reconciliation
Designed by renowned architect Norman Foster, the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation was built to host the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions. Its uniqueness lies not only in its purpose but also in its architectural concept, based on the Fibonacci Golden Section. The pyramid-shaped structure has a base of 62 by 62 meters and reaches the same height. Visiting this remarkable site is one of the more thought-provoking things to do in Astana, combining symbolism with innovative design.
Ak Orda
The construction of the official residence of the head of state took three years and incorporated the latest technologies. The building reaches a height of 80 meters including the spire, with the ground floor alone measuring 10 meters high. Excursions on the ground floor include visits to the Grand Central Hall (1,800 m²), the Press Conference Hall, Gala Hall, and the Winter Garden.
Atameken
Traveling across a country as vast as Kazakhstan (the ninth largest in the world) in just an hour may seem impossible. Yet anyone can experience this by becoming a kind of Gulliver and seeing the entire nation laid out before them in remarkable detail. This is the idea behind the Atameken Ethno-Memorial Complex, a detailed open-air map of Kazakhstan created by leading architects and designers. Atameken offers a playful way to explore the country at a glance - and it’s easily one of the most distinctive things to do in Astana.
Duman Entertaiment Center
Things to do in Astana also include exploring modern indoor attractions like the Duman Entertainment Center, located on the city’s left bank. The complex features an aquarium walk-through, a museum of miniatures, and a 3D cinema all within a single venue.
Khan-Shatyr
Among the most recognizable places to visit in Astana is Khan-Shatyr, a futuristic shopping and entertainment center that opened in July 2010. Designed by renowned architect Norman Foster – who has also created major projects in London and other world capitals – the tent-like structure has become a modern symbol of the city. Inside, visitors will find a wide selection of shops, cafés, and entertainment facilities, including an indoor park and a tropical-style beach resort beneath its transparent dome.
Circus
In late 2005, a UFO-shaped structure appeared in Astana – resembling a flying saucer that had landed in the heart of the city. But it soon became clear this was no extraterrestrial arrival, but rather the opening of the new metropolitan circus. With its unusual architecture and vibrant performances, the circus remains one of the more unexpected sites to discover in Astana.
Hazrat Sultan Mosque
The Hazrat Sultan Mosque (Khasret Sultan Mosque) stands out as one of the most striking modern destinations in Astana. Resembling an oriental palace, this colossal structure was built with the efforts of more than 1,500 craftsmen and builders, resulting in a landmark that reflects both scale and elegance in the heart of the Kazakh capital.
Korgalzhyn National Park
Korgalzhyn National Park is the largest nature reserve in Kazakhstan, located about 30 km southwest of Astana. Spanning roughly 258,900 hectares – 198,000 of which are covered by water – the park includes the vast lakes Tengiz and Korgalzhyn. Known for its unique wetlands and diverse birdlife, it’s one of the most rewarding places to visit near Astana for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.