Getting Around Almaty: Walkability, Public Transit & Biking

Almaty is quite pedestrian-friendly in many areas, with numerous destinations accessible on foot. Key neighborhoods like Dostyk and Makatayev offer a pleasant walking environment with cafes, parks, and shops closely located. The city has good sidewalks and pedestrian crosswalks, making day-to-day errands doable without needing a car. However, the overall car-oriented layout and wide roads in some parts can be less inviting for pedestrians.

The city boasts a well-developed public transport system, with efficient metro, bus, and trolleybus services. The metro is particularly effective for quick travel, while buses offer extensive coverage, albeit they can be crowded. The payment method is streamlined with the "Onay" card, and navigation is simplified using apps like 2GIS or Yandex Maps. Despite its strengths, peak hour congestion can affect the transit experience.

Almaty offers some dedicated bike lanes, especially on major thoroughfares like Abay Street, and has a bike-sharing system through AlmatyBike. However, the city's biking infrastructure is not comprehensive, and the busy traffic can pose challenges for cyclists. The terrain is also hilly in many areas, which might deter casual bikers. While there is governmental support for cycling, there is room for improvement in the existing infrastructure.