Welcome to Almaty! This vibrant city in Kazakhstan is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Here is a detailed 4-day itinerary to help you explore the best of what Almaty has to offer.

Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration

1. Arrival in Almaty: Land at Almaty International Airport. You can take a taxi or the bus number 92 to the city center, which is budget-friendly and convenient.

1. Check-In: Settle into your accommodation. There are numerous budget-friendly hotels and hostels in the city center.
2. Zenkov Cathedral: Visit the beautiful wooden Zenkov Cathedral located in Panfilov Park. Entry is free, and the architecture is stunning.

1. Green Bazaar: Just a short walk away, explore the Green Bazaar. It’s a great place to try local food and buy souvenirs.
2. Kok-Tobe Hill: Take the cable car from downtown Almaty to Kok-Tobe Hill. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and mountains. There’s a small amusement park and restaurants at the top.

Day 2: Natural Wonders

1. Big Almaty Lake: Take a morning trip to Big Almaty Lake, which is about 30 km from the city. You can hire a taxi or join a tour. The lake is breathtaking, with turquoise waters surrounded by mountains.

1. Hike: If you’re up for it, there are several hiking trails around the lake.
2. Return to Almaty: Head back to the city for lunch. There are numerous cafes and restaurants where you can grab a quick bite.
3. Almaty Central Park: Spend your evening at Almaty Central Park. It’s a great place for a relaxing walk or boat ride on the lake.

Day 3: Cultural Exploration

1. Central State Museum: Start your day at the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan. It offers a comprehensive look at the history and culture of Kazakhstan. Entry is budget-friendly.

1. Opera and Ballet Theatre: Take a guided tour of the Abay Opera and Ballet Theatre, an architectural gem.
2. Kazakh Museum of Folk Musical Instruments: Discover traditional Kazakh instruments at this museum located in Panfilov Park.
3. Arbat Street: Spend your evening at Arbat Street, Almaty’s main pedestrian street. It’s lively with street performers, artists, and shops.

1. Nightlife: If you’re interested in experiencing Almaty’s nightlife, there are many budget-friendly bars and clubs in the city center.

Day 4: Adventure and Farewell

1. Medeu Ice Skating Rink: Take a trip to Medeu, the highest ice skating rink in the world. It’s about 15 km from the city center and easily accessible by bus or taxi. Even if you don’t skate, the views are worth it.
2. Shymbulak Ski Resort: From Medeu, take a cable car to Shymbulak Ski Resort. In the summer, you can enjoy hiking and in the winter, skiing.

1. Return to Almaty: Head back to the city in the afternoon.
2. Last-Minute Shopping: Spend your last evening shopping for souvenirs. The Dostyk Plaza and Esentai Mall are good places to shop.

Budget Tips:

• Use public transportation or share rides to save on travel costs.
• Eat at local cafes and street food stalls for budget-friendly meals.
• Book accommodation in advance to get the best deals.

Enjoy your trip to Almaty! This itinerary is designed to give you a mix of cultural, natural, and adventure experiences in this beautiful city.