Capital city, Kazakhstan
Astana for solo travelers
Is Astana good for solo travel?
Kazakhstan's planned capital has striking architecture, big malls and a clean, orderly feel. Winters are brutally cold and the city is quiet and spread out; best for a short stop.
Solo travel at a glance
| Solo travel | 3/5 · Good, with some effort |
|---|---|
| Locals | Friendly |
| English | Limited |
| Safety | 4/5 · Safe with normal care |
| Solo women | Usually fine alone. Unwanted comments are possible from drunk men at night; use app taxis late. |
How to meet people in Astana
Small expat and student circles, Telegram groups, hostels and language exchanges; the nomad scene is thin compared with Almaty.
Good things to do alone
- See Bayterek and Nurzhol Boulevard at sunset
- Visit Khan Shatyr's indoor beach
- Stroll the Esil river embankment in summer
- Enter the Hazret Sultan Mosque
- Try Kazakh food at a local restaurant
Where to stay in Astana
| Area | Good for |
|---|---|
| Left Bank (Esil district) | Landmarks, malls, Expo area, newer apartments |
| Right Bank (Saryarka) | Older city, cheaper food, more local life |
| Nurzhol Boulevard area | Walkable center with Bayterek and EXPO |
Solo travel across Kazakhstan
| Place | Solo | English |
|---|---|---|
| Almaty | 4/5 | Limited |
| Astana | 3/5 | Limited |
Quick answers
Is Astana good for solo travelers?
Good, with some effort (3/5). Kazakhstan's planned capital has striking architecture, big malls and a clean, orderly feel.
How do you meet people in Astana?
Small expat and student circles, Telegram groups, hostels and language exchanges; the nomad scene is thin compared with Almaty. On SoloSquare you can also join small plans with other travelers who are there now.
Do people speak English in Astana?
Limited.
Is Astana safe for solo female travelers?
Usually fine alone. Unwanted comments are possible from drunk men at night; use app taxis late.
More about Astana
Going to Astana solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Astana meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
Ratings are SoloSquare's editorial judgment. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.