Planning Your Trip Nur-Sultan | The Ritz-Carlton, Astana

Planning Your Trip

Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, is a city that rose—in just 20 years—from flat and empty grassland plains into an eclectic, futuristic metropolis. Here’s what to pack for your trip.

What to Pack

The Ritz-Carlton, Astana

Astana has an extreme continental climate that makes for warm summers with the occasional rain shower. Stay dry by bringing a rain jacket, umbrella and waterproof shoes. Also, Kazakhstan is a country with an interesting history informed by years of Soviet influence — consider bringing a travel guide to put your trip into better perspective.

Business Travel

As in other parts of Asia, business dress is expected to be formal and professional. Err on the side of modesty and conservatism when traveling here for work.
For men, a well-tailored suit in neutral colors (black, navy, gray) is the standard, along with neat ties, crisp button-down shirts and a good pair of leather shoes.
For women, a pantsuit or dresses and skirts that fall below the knee are appropriate choices for the corporate environment.
Complete your look with an elegant pair of heels to make the right first impression.

Exploring the City

From the lollipop-shaped Bayterek Tower to the Norman Foster-designed Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, Astana’s architectural marvels are best explored on foot. Pack versatile and casual basics for optimal comfort.
Sneakers and flat sandals or boots (depending on the season) are recommended footwear for all the walking you’ll do from landmark to landmark.
Astana’s growth in recent years has also created an upscale dining and nightlife scene. Bring a pair of heels and dress shoes, along with blouses, dresses, and nice slacks and shirts.
Summers are mild but winters in Kazakhstan are downright freezing. Temperatures can drop as low as minus 30 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re visiting during this time, bring thermal underwear, sweaters, thick coats, gloves, hats and scarves!

Day Trips

The beautiful lakes and exotic flora and fauna scattered throughout Burabay National Park make for an ideal escape from the city. Bring along the essentials for a day spent outdoors.
Pack plenty of sunscreen and bug spray to stay protected in natural settings.
Layers are a good idea for summer, along with a light jacket or sweater for chilly evenings.
Bring hiking boots and workout clothes to trek along the park’s paths in pursuit of stunning views.

What To Reserve

The Ritz-Carlton, Astana

Astana’s rapid development, stunning architecture, veritable dining scene and proximity to magnificent landscapes have helped put Central Asia, and particularly Kazakhstan, on the world map. Below, some suggestions to fill your itinerary.

Dining Reservations

An outpost of the buzzy Moscow establishment, the cheekily named Selfie, in The Ritz-Carlton, Astana, is as innovative and unique as the city’s skyline — plus, the views here are unbeatable. For great steak, head to Line Brew, which also serves beer from its own microbrewery. If you’re feeling adventurous, order the horse meat steak. For the best Uzbek food in town, go to Alasha, which is decorated like an Uzbek palace and features live music and traditional dances every night. And to get a taste of Kazakh cuisine, book a table at Astana Nury, which also serves European fare and has the added perk of live jazz.

Spa Appointments

Retreat to The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Astana for some well-deserved rest and relaxation. The signature Traditional Body Bliss was crafted with the city in mind and will indulge you with an exfoliation, marine mud or algae wrap, and full body massage. Look like you’ve spent hours at the gym without even stepping in one with the Contouring Body Ritual, which will detoxify, fight fluid retention and boost vitality. If you prefer to DIY, The Ritz-Carlton, Astana also has a state-of-the-art fitness center, where you can book a session with a personal trainer.

Museum Tickets & Cultural Sights

Legendary architect Norman Foster has his fingerprints all over the city. He designed the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, which holds summits of all the religions of the world and also houses an opera house, a museum, a library and a research center. He also did the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center, a massive neofuturist tent (big enough to fit 10 football stadiums) containing an urban park, shopping center, boating river and indoor beach resort with sand imported from the Maldives. The tent’s transparent material lets in sunlight, while special systems make sure the interiors are at optimal temperatures, even during frigid winters. To get a history lesson on the country, pay a visit to the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Outdoor Excursions

Less than three hours away from Astana is Burabay National Park, a stunning landscape of pristine lakes, lush flora and picturesque pine forests. Strap on your hiking gear and spend a day exploring — you’re guaranteed to pocket a few good wildlife sightings. Bird-watchers ought to visit Korgalzhyn Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest national park in Kazakhstan, which is home to over 300 species, including pink flamingos, Siberian white cranes and Dalmatian pelicans.

Itineraries

The Ritz-Carlton, Astana

In 1998, Astana, formerly Akmola, was named Kazakhstan’s new capital city. Amid the seemingly endless parade of cranes and construction in this ever-evolving futuristic capital, travelers will discover the delightful charm of old-world Kazakh culture. While the city seems like a modern oasis springing from the land, just a short trip outside the city will uncover virtually untouched natural reserves and picturesque landscapes. Whether you prefer the comforts of the city or getting some fresh air, these are the best things to see and do in Astana.

Day Trips

As new developments pop up on the skyline almost daily, there is an ever-growing list of things to experience in Astana. While the city is quite literally the newest cosmopolitan destination on the map, with less than 20 years in existence, there’s much more to see beyond the bustling urban core. Just a short drive from the capital, visitors can explore all the natural wonders of the picturesque Kazakh countryside. Take a wildlife tour to spot pink flamingos in their natural habitat, or spend the day hiking for an incredible view of the vast clear blue lakes from Bolektau Mountain.

Khan Shatyr Shopping & Entertainment Centre

Day 1

Morning

The Journey Begins. Just 150 miles north of Astana lies Burabay National Park. Filled with lush mountains, fragrant pine forests and 14 deep, blue lakes, this untouched landscape is a must-see destination for travelers. Be sure to bring a camera to record the unusual rock formations and breathtaking views.

Midday

Get Some Fresh Air. Now that you’ve arrived at this natural splendor, the hardest part is deciding whether to take part in rock climbing, hiking, cycling or a boating excursion. To get your bearings, visit the Burabay National Nature Park Visitor Center, a wonderful resource for learning about the diverse wildlife in Kazakhstan. Stop by its zoo to get a closer — and safer — look at the park’s indigenous animals: wolves, bears, mountain goats and boars, to name a few.

Afternoon

Go High. Stop by one of the quaint cafés in town to grab a quick bite for lunch and to restock your water supply before enjoying the second half of your outdoor adventure. Afternoon is a great time to begin your ascent up Bolektau Mountain, as you’ll reach the peak in time to soak in the awe-inspiring views as daylight starts to dwindle.

Take It Easy. Upon your return to the hotel, head to The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Astana to unwind from the day’s adventure. The signature Contouring Body Ritual treatment will soothe your muscles while calming and revitalizing your mind.

Evening

A Taste of Astana. After a day spent in the wild, sit down for an elegant meal at Kazakh Gourmet, a restaurant where traditional Kazakh cuisine meets a fine-dining atmosphere. Choose from options ranging from traditional horsemeat delicacies and various noodle dishes to a fresh berry salad and local cheeses.

Make a Toast. End your evening with a final drink at Өzen at The Ritz-Carlton, Astana. Try the Earl Grey & Cucumber, a delightful concoction that offsets the tingle of gin with the sweetness of bergamot honey. If you’re looking for something fruitier, we recommend the Өzen Piña Colada flavored with pineapple purée and lemongrass.

Day 2

Morning

Shopping Spree. If you’re in need of some retail therapy, look no further than the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center. The world’s largest tented structure is filled with local brands and international favorites, creating a unique destination for even the savviest shoppers.

Midday

Child's Play. Situated in the center atrium of Khan Shatyr, Fame City is a family fun destination for children of all ages. Discover the animatronic Dinosaur Park, ride the carousel or take a spin on the bumper cars. For thrill seekers, there is even an amusement park complete with a drop tower and indoor roller coaster.

Lunch Time. No trip to the mall is complete without a quick bite at the food court. From fine dining to fast food and frozen yogurt, there are many options the whole family will enjoy.

Afternoon

Hit the Beach. Created to give the Kazakh people a respite during the cold, harsh winters, Sky Beach at Khan Shatyr is a beachfront destination like no other. This man-made indoor waterpark on the top floor of entertainment center features a regulated tropical environment complete with imported sand, swaying palm trees and even a water slide.

Evening

Taste the Difference. Head back to the hotel for dinner at MÖKKI at The Ritz-Carlton, Astana. Kids and adults alike will delight in the fresh, seasonal menu made from locally sourced produce. Indulge in dessert with a piece of the chocolate cake, an international favorite.

Day 3

Morning

Into the Wild. Just a short drive outside of Astana is the Korgalzhyn Nature Reserve, home to over 300 species of birds and various elk and lynx populations. With several picturesque lakes and the world’s most northerly population of pink flamingos, this UNESCO World Heritage site is the perfect destination for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts alike. Stop by the nature museum in the visitor’s center to get an overview of the vast territory before you begin exploring.

Midday

A Quick Break. Head into town to enjoy traditional dishes at a local café and to restock supplies for your afternoon adventure.

Afternoon

Take a Hike. Explore the diverse flora and fauna at the nature reserve with an easy jaunt around the unique climate. Head to Lake Tengiz, the largest lake on the reserve, to see swans and cranes and to spot the main attraction: a flock of pink flamingos. Keep your eyes peeled for the wild tulips that grow throughout the park.

Evening

Dinner Among the Clouds. Return to the hotel to enjoy the rich flavors of fresh seafood at Selfie on the top floor of The Ritz-Carlton, Astana. With panoramic views of the city and one of the most extensive wine lists around, this is one meal you won’t forget. If you can’t decide what to order, anything with crab is a sure palate pleaser.

A Night at the Opera. While the sight of the magnificent building is an experience unto itself, the Astana Opera is a must-do for patrons of the arts. Considered one of the best acoustic settings in the world, the theater comprises two halls: the Main Hall, which hosts operas, ballets and symphonies, and the Chamber Hall, which is used for orchestral performances.

The Perfect Weekend

Over the years, Astana has transformed into a modern capital city set in the heart of Kazakhstan. Often dubbed the Dubai of Central Asia for its relatively new presence on the map, Astana feels like a city of the future. But even with its rapid urban development and strikingly modern skylines, the Kazakh capital has preserved its old-world charm while paving the way for world-class attractions. Spend your weekend sampling the best dining, shopping, art and culture the city has to offer.

Day 1

Morning

Eat Local. Begin your day with a full breakfast spread at MÖKKI on the third floor of The Ritz-Carlton, Astana. Menus are updated seasonally to reflect the flavors and products sourced from local farms.

All That Glitters. Take a trip to the monument at the center of Astana: the Bayterek Tower. The structure’s golden orb represents an old Kazakh legend about a mythical bird that lays an egg containing the answers to all human desires. Take the elevator straight to the top for a view of Kazakhstan that extends beyond Astana.

Midday

History Lesson. Learn about the history of the Kazakhs at the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the newest — and largest — museum in Central Asia. Seven halls are dedicated to subjects ranging from gold and medieval history to modern art and ethnography.

Afternoon

Raise the Steaks. For lunch, head to Restaurant The Kitchen, an excellent steakhouse with an outdoor terrace. Choose from several cuts of high-quality meat. For something a little lighter, opt for the Waldorf salad, a traditional favorite.

Evening

Treat Yourself. Indulge in the Traditional Body Bliss Treatment at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Astana to bring relaxation and peace to the mind and body. The session includes full-body exfoliation, a nourishing marine mud wrap and a full-body aromatherapy massage to leave you feeling refreshed from a day of exploring.

Dinner's Ready. Head to The Grill for a late dinner in a warm and relaxed environment. The rustic menu features the best cuts of meat, fresh fish and a sophisticated wine list. Be sure to make a reservation for an intimate dinner in the Private Dining Room to enjoy a bespoke menu created by the restaurant’s culinary team

Day 2

Morning

Discover Islamic Architecture. The Hazrat Sultan Mosque is the second-largest mosque in Central Asia and features the largest dome in Kazakhstan and ornately marbled interiors. The stunning building is open to the public, but note that tourists will be asked to don a modest robe before entering.

Midday

Blast From the Past. For lunch, take a cab to Epocha Restaurant for an unforgettable dining experience. Modeled after a Soviet-era restaurant, Epocha serves traditional Kazakh and Russian fare alongside live, traditional music in a fun and kitschy environment.

No Small Feat. See all of Kazakhstan in one place at the Atameken Ethno-Memorial Complex. The museum shows the entire country’s landscapes and landmark buildings constructed in miniature. Stop by the on-site craftsmen’s workshop to see how the exquisite models are made and browse the selection of souvenirs to take home as a keepsake.

Afternoon

Find Your Peace. Walk through the Presidential Park’s manicured grounds at the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation. The formidable pyramid represents all of the world’s religions and is the home to educational facilities and national headquarters for Kazakhstan’s various ethnic groups.

Hidden Gem. Upon your arrival in Astana, you might have mistaken the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center’s pointed structure for a circus tent, but what’s inside the neo-futurist building is even more exciting: an indoor park and jogging track, fashion boutiques, movie theaters and even an indoor beach and waterpark.

Evening

Dinner With a View. Nestled high above the city of Astana on the 18th floor of The Ritz-Carlton, Astana is Selfie, an innovative restaurant by award-winning Chef Dmitrii Solovev. Enjoy panoramic views, an expansive wine list and an incredibly fresh array of seafood to celebrate your final evening in the heart of Central Asia.

Enjoy a Nightcap. Sip a signature cocktail at Өzen in The Ritz-Carlton, Astana and toast to a wonderful weekend. Choose from options like the Orange Blossom (Cointreau, orange juice, lemon and vanilla-jasmine syrup) or The Man Under the Fern Tree (gin, lemon juice, tonic water, patchouli, cider, Vetiver, mint and grapefruit syrup).

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The Ritz-Carlton, Astana

The Ritz-Carlton, Astana