Astana, also known as Nur-Sultan, is the modern capital of Kazakhstan. It’s known for sleek architecture and a mix of cultures. The city is clean and safe but has very cold winters and hot summers.
Lifestyle🍽️
Local dishes like Beshbarmak and Shashlik are popular. You'll find many international restaurants. Vegetarian options exist but vegan spots are limited. Some places serve food late.
Nightlife is growing with bars, pubs, and clubs mostly in the city center. Offers range from casual spots to upscale clubs.
The coffee scene is developing with specialty coffee shops and growing popularity.
Tipping isn't required but appreciated. Restaurants often add 10% service charge. Taxi riders usually round up.
SIM cards are sold at the airport and official stores. Main providers are Kcell, Beeline, and Tele2/Altel. A passport is needed for registration.
Services & Infrastructure
The city is generally clean, especially in central and new areas. Waste collection is regular but recycling is limited.
Some pharmacies, minimarts, and restaurants operate 24/7. Night clinics limited mainly to emergencies.
Major supermarkets like Magnum, Small, and Galmart carry international products. Green Bazaar offers fresh local produce. Most are open from 9 AM to 10-11 PM. Bargaining is usual only at markets.
Card payments work in most supermarkets, restaurants, and big shops. Cash is still handy for small vendors, taxis, and markets.
ATMs are common in banks, malls, and airports. Use major banks like Halyk, Kaspi, or ForteBank. Withdraw larger amounts to avoid fees on foreign cards.
International schools like Haileybury Astana and QSI offer English instruction. Local schools teach in Kazakh and Russian. Admissions open late winter for the next year.
Work & Digital💻
A growing digital nomad scene with meetups and many cafes that have good Wi-Fi.
Nature & Activities🌿
Many parks and riverside paths with shaded walking and running routes.
Good running paths along the river and parks. Safe during the day but winter air quality can be poor.
Many modern gyms and fitness centers available around the city.
Tennis courts available at sports clubs with booking and some equipment rental.
Padel is less common but growing in popularity.
Several yoga studios offer different styles; some have English-speaking instructors.
Gyms offer boxing, judo, karate, taekwondo, BJJ, and Muay Thai. English instructors vary by gym.
No local ski resorts; nearest is far away near Almaty.
Limited water sports like paddle boating on the Ishim River during summer.
No surfing available due to being landlocked.
No diving or snorkeling opportunities.
Health & Safety🏥
Private clinics offer better service and English-speaking staff, including International SOS Clinic. Pharmacies are common, some 24/7. Emergency numbers: 103 ambulance, 101 fire, 102 police.
Tap water is mostly safe to drink, especially in newer buildings. Many prefer bottled water due to taste.
Community & Family
Many playgrounds and kid-friendly cafés are around. Attractions include Ailand amusement park and Duman Entertainment Center.
LGBTQ+ acceptance is limited; few safe spaces and low legal protections.
Pet policies vary. Veterinary clinics exist but dedicated pet parks are uncommon.
Quick Facts
Power supply is generally reliable with modern infrastructure and few outages.
⚠️Natural Disasters Risk
🌦️Seasonal Issues
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