Almaty: City Highlights Walking Tour with Chocolate Shop

Exploring a city like Almaty can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re short on time but eager to get a real taste of its character. This City Highlights Walking Tour offers an accessible way to see the best of the Kazakh capital while soaking in its history, culture, and flavors. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals, travelers get an engaging introduction to Almaty’s most iconic sites and hidden gems—all for just $20 per person.

What makes this tour stand out are its well-selected stops: the stunning Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, the vibrant Zeleniy Bazaar, and the charming Rakhat Lotte Chocolate Shop. Plus, the tour’s flexibility lets you explore at a comfortable pace and enjoy tastings of local delicacies. However, it’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must—and if you’re after a more extensive culinary experience, there’s an optional wine and dinner upgrade.

This tour is best suited for travelers interested in history, culture, and authentic local life. It’s especially ideal for those who want an affordable, guided overview of Almaty without overloading their schedule. If you enjoy lively markets, scenic landmarks, and a good dose of storytelling, this experience is likely to tick all the boxes.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $20, this tour offers excellent value for an introduction to Almaty’s main sights and local flavors.
• Authentic Local Experiences: Markets, chocolate tastings, and insightful commentary bring Kazakh culture vividly to life.
• Informative Guides: Guides like Aika and Fariza are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and engaging storytelling.
• Flexible & Convenient: The 2-3 hour walk covers key landmarks, with optional tastings and meals available.
• Ideal for First-Time Visitors: Perfect for those wanting a structured, curated overview of the city’s highlights.
• Comfortable Shoes Recommended: As a walking tour, good footwear will ensure you enjoy every step.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Almaty Highlights Tour

Starting Point: The Heart of the City

The tour kicks off at Arbat on Zhibek Zholy street, right in front of the LUMIERA Cinema sign. It’s a central, recognizable spot where most travelers can easily find their way. The guide will gather the group here, making sure everyone is ready to explore. This initial meeting sets the tone for a relaxed, friendly experience, often enhanced by the enthusiasm of guides like Aika or Fariza, who reportedly go out of their way to answer questions and make everyone feel comfortable.

The Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen & Zenkov Cathedral

The first major stop is the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, one of Almaty’s most treasured green spaces. This park is not only beautiful but also steeped in history. It’s a place where locals come to relax, and travelers get a glimpse of Kazakh patriotism through the massive war memorial honoring 28 soldiers who fought during WWII.

Adjacent to the park is the Zenkov Cathedral, a true architectural marvel. Built entirely from wood without a single nail, the cathedral’s vibrant colors and intricate detail make it a photo-worthy stop. Several reviews highlight that guides like Fariza are excellent at sharing stories about the cathedral’s unique construction and significance, making this spot more than just a pretty picture.

Visiting the Bustling Zeleniy Bazaar

Next up is Zeleniy Bazaar, a lively hive of activity that truly captures the essence of local life. Here, you’ll find stalls brimming with fresh produce, traditional snacks, and local crafts. Reviewers mention sampling kurt (fermented milk snack), kumys (fermented mare’s milk), and baursak (fried bread)—delicacies you might not find in a typical tourist spot.

Guides often provide tips on what to try and where to find the best products. One reviewer praised Aika for pointing out great fruit and chocolate samples, making the visit both tasty and informative. The market’s vibrant atmosphere offers a sensory overload, and shopping here feels more authentic than a typical souvenir shop.

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The Sweet Finale: Rakhat Lotte Chocolate Shop

The tour culminates at the Rakhat Lotte Chocolate Souvenir Shop—a true highlight for anyone with a sweet tooth. Known for its high-quality Kazakh chocolates, this shop offers a variety of treats to sample. Reviewers rave about the delicious chocolates and the chance to purchase souvenirs directly from a well-regarded local chocolatier.

A guide like Aika often shares her favorites, and many guests appreciate the opportunity to try chocolates that are both luxurious and uniquely local. It’s an ideal spot to pick up gifts or personal indulgences before heading back into the city.

Optional Extras: Food and Wine Tastings

For those interested, the tour offers optional wine tastings or a Kazakh cuisine dinner at a local restaurant. These extras provide a deeper taste of Kazakh culture and culinary traditions, often enjoyed by guests looking to extend their experience beyond the walking tour. Many reviews note the value of these add-ons, especially when guided by knowledgeable hosts who recommend local wines or dishes.

The Experience in Practice

This tour is designed to be accessible and engaging. The group size tends to be small, fostering a friendly atmosphere where questions are encouraged. The pace is comfortable, allowing for plenty of time at each stop, and the total duration clocks in at around 2-3 hours.

From the reviews, guides like Aika and Fariza stand out for their warmth and expertise. They don’t just recite facts—they share stories, answer questions, and offer recommendations that make the city feel approachable and alive. For example, one guest appreciated that Fariza helped navigate the local market and even assisted with booking transport for their next destination, showing how personal and helpful the guiding can be.

What to Expect in Terms of Value

Despite the modest price, the tour offers more than just sightseeing. It’s a chance to understand the city’s character through its landmarks, markets, and flavors. The inclusion of tastings—chocolates and local delicacies—adds a layer of enjoyment that many value highly.

You’ll love the way the guide’s stories bring the sites to life, making history and culture accessible. The visit to the marketplace offers a glimpse into everyday life, often highlighted as a favorite part by travelers like Daniel, who appreciated exploring through a local’s perspective.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes—the walking can be brisk and involves some uneven surfaces, especially at the bazaar.
• Bring cash for small purchases at the market.
• Book in advance if you want to secure a spot, especially during busy travel seasons.
• Consider upgrading with tastings or dinner if you’re a foodie or want a more comprehensive experience.
• The tour is conducted in English and Russian, so check your language preference beforehand.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded snapshot of Almaty. It’s also ideal if you’re traveling on a budget but don’t want to miss out on cultural highlights. Food lovers and market enthusiasts will find it especially rewarding, thanks to the tastings and lively atmosphere.

Travelers who enjoy guided storytelling and learning from locals will appreciate how guides like Aika and Fariza make history and culture feel personal. If you’re after a relaxed, authentic experience that balances sightseeing with tastings, this tour ticks all those boxes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children under 4 years old might find it less engaging. The walking pace is relaxed, but comfortable shoes are recommended for all.

How long does the tour take?
Typically, it lasts around 2-3 hours, making it a great short intro to the city without taking up your whole day.

What is included in the price?
Your guide, touring the key landmarks, and access to the chocolate shop are included. Food and drinks are not included unless you opt for the additional tastings or meal.

Do I need to pay extra for tastings or meals?
Yes, tastings at the chocolate shop are included, but additional options like wine tasting or local meals come at extra cost.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Arbat (Zhibek Zholy street) in front of the LUMIERA Cinema, and ends back at the same spot.

Is this tour offered in multiple languages?
Yes, the tour runs in English and Russian, so check your preferred language when booking.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—perfect if your plans change unexpectedly.

Is there a dress code?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since it’s a walking tour. Dress according to the weather, especially if visiting during colder months.

Final Thoughts

This Almaty city highlights tour offers a balanced, engaging introduction to one of Central Asia’s most inviting cities. For just $20, you get to visit iconic sites, taste local specialties, and learn from guides who truly know their city. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting a friendly, informative, and authentic experience without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply curious about what makes Almaty special, this tour provides a solid foundation and a memorable glimpse into Kazakh life. If you’re short on time but want an enriching snapshot of the city’s culture and sights, this guided walk is a reliable choice that’s both fun and value-packed.

Note: Always check the latest tour details and availability when booking. Tours are subject to change based on seasons, weather, and guide availability.

You can check availability for your dates here: