For travelers seeking natural beauty and outdoor adventures, Almaty is the clear winner. However, if you're drawn to cutting-edge architecture and a glimpse into Kazakhstan's modern aspirations, Nur-Sultan will captivate you.
Almaty, Kazakhstan comes out ahead more often in this comparison. Check live prices before you book, especially if your dates are flexible.
Deciding between Almaty and Nur-Sultan for your Kazakh adventure? These two prominent cities offer distinct experiences, each with its own charm and allure. Almaty, nestled at the foothills of the majestic Tien Shan Mountains, embraces its natural surroundings with a blend of urban energy and breathtaking landscapes. It's a city that invites exploration of both its bustling bazaars and its serene, snow-capped peaks.
In contrast, Nur-Sultan, the modern capital, stands as a testament to architectural innovation and forward-thinking design. Its futuristic skyline and grand boulevards offer a glimpse into a rapidly developing nation, a stark yet fascinating contrast to Almaty's more traditional roots. Your choice will largely depend on whether you seek the call of the wild or the marvel of modern ingenuity.
| Month | Almaty, Kazakhstan High | Almaty, Kazakhstan Rain | Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan High | Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan Rain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 27°F | 30mm | 14°F | 25mm |
| Feb | 30°F | 35mm | 18°F | 25mm |
| Mar | 43°F | 50mm | 32°F | 30mm |
| Apr | 57°F | 60mm | 50°F | 30mm |
| May | 68°F | 70mm | 66°F | 40mm |
| Jun | 77°F | 50mm | 75°F | 40mm |
| Jul | 81°F | 45mm | 79°F | 50mm |
| Aug | 79°F | 40mm | 75°F | 35mm |
| Sep | 70°F | 45mm | 64°F | 30mm |
| Oct | 57°F | 55mm | 48°F | 35mm |
| Nov | 41°F | 40mm | 30°F | 30mm |
| Dec | 28°F | 30mm | 18°F | 25mm |
Almaty shines in late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) for pleasant weather and vibrant nature, with winter ideal for snow sports. Nur-Sultan is best enjoyed from late spring through early autumn (May-September) for its comfortable temperatures, while winter offers a stark, beautiful, albeit very cold, experience.
Browse Lonely Planet, Fodor's, Rick Steves, and more on Amazon — packed with maps, itineraries, and local tips.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
We'll send you the best destinations to visit each month — right timing, less crowds.