Best Places to Visit in Shymkent | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Shymkent Travel Guide
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Welcome to Shymkent, a vibrant city located in southern Kazakhstan. Known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, Shymkent offers a unique travel experience for adventurers and history enthusiasts alike. As the third-largest city in Kazakhstan, Shymkent boasts a bustling city center filled with modern amenities, while also preserving its traditional charm. Explore the ancient ruins of Otrar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and immerse yourself in the fascinating stories of the Silk Road. Indulge in the local cuisine, which combines flavors from Central Asia, Persia, and Russia, and discover the warm hospitality of the Kazakh people. Whether you're wandering through the bustling bazaars, admiring the intricate architecture, or venturing into the nearby mountains, Shymkent promises an unforgettable journey filled with cultural discoveries and natural wonders.
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Best Places To Visit in Shymkent
1. Shymkent, Kazakhstan: Shymkent is a vibrant city located in southern Kazakhstan. It is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and bustling markets. Visitors can explore the city's many museums and galleries, including the Regional Museum of Local Lore and the Museum of Fine Arts. The city is also home to several parks and gardens, such as the Abai Park and the Central Park of Culture and Recreation. Shymkent is a great destination for those interested in learning about Kazakh culture and history.
2. Budapest, Hungary: Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is known for its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can explore the city's many historic landmarks, such as the Buda Castle, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and the Fisherman's Bastion. The city is also home to several world-renowned thermal baths, including the Szechenyi Thermal Bath and the Gellert Thermal Bath. Budapest is a great destination for those looking to experience the best of European culture and history.
3. Kyoto, Japan: Kyoto is a city located in central Japan and is known for its beautiful temples, gardens, and traditional Japanese culture. Visitors can explore the city's many historic landmarks, such as the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the Fushimi Inari Shrine, and the Nijo Castle. The city is also home to several beautiful gardens, such as the Kinkaku-ji Temple Garden and the Ryoan-ji Temple Garden. Kyoto is a great destination for those looking to experience the best of Japanese culture and history.
4. Barcelona, Spain: Barcelona is a vibrant city located in northeastern Spain and is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can explore the city's many historic landmarks, such as the Sagrada Familia, the Park Guell, and the Casa Batllo. The city is also home to several beautiful beaches, such as the Barceloneta Beach and the Nova Icaria Beach. Barcelona is a great destination for those looking to experience the best of Spanish culture and history.
5. Cape Town, South Africa: Cape Town is a city located in southwestern South Africa and is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history. Visitors can explore the city's many historic landmarks, such as the Castle of Good Hope, the District Six Museum, and the Robben Island Museum. The city is also home to several beautiful natural attractions, such as Table Mountain and the Cape of Good Hope. Cape Town is a great destination for those looking to experience the best of African culture and history.
6. Paris, France: Paris is the capital city of France and is known for its stunning architecture, world-renowned museums, and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore the city's many historic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral. The city is also home to several beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Luxembourg Gardens and the Tuileries Garden. Paris is a great destination for those looking to experience the best of French culture and history.
7. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Rio de Janeiro is a city located in southeastern Brazil and is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. Visitors can explore the city's many historic landmarks, such as the Christ the Redeemer statue, the Sugarloaf Mountain, and the Copacabana Beach. The city is also home to several beautiful natural attractions, such as the Tijuca National Park and the Guanabara Bay. Rio de Janeiro is a great destination for those looking to experience the best of Brazilian culture and history.
8. Sydney, Australia: Sydney is a city located in southeastern Australia and is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history. Visitors can explore the city's many historic landmarks, such as the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the Royal Botanic Garden. The city is also home to several beautiful natural attractions, such as the Blue Mountains and the Bondi Beach. Sydney is a great destination for those looking to experience the best of Australian culture and history.
9. Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Dubai is a city located in the United Arab Emirates and is known for its stunning architecture, luxurious shopping, and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore the city's many historic landmarks, such as the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall, and the Palm Jumeirah. The city is also home to several beautiful natural attractions, such as the Dubai Miracle Garden and the Dubai Fountain. Dubai is a great destination for those looking to experience the best of Middle Eastern culture and history.
10. New York City, United States: New York City is a city located in the northeastern United States and is known for its stunning architecture, world-renowned museums, and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore the city's many historic landmarks, such as the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The city is also home to several beautiful parks and gardens, such as Central Park and the High Line. New York City is a great destination for those looking to experience the best of American culture and history.
Hotels Map Of Shymkent
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Tours And Activities In Shymkent
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Food & Drinks To Try In Shymkent
1. Beshbarmak: This traditional Kazakh dish is a must-try in Shymkent. It consists of boiled meat (usually lamb or beef) served on a bed of flat noodles and topped with onions. The dish is typically enjoyed with your hands, making it a unique and interactive dining experience.
2. Manti: Manti are steamed dumplings filled with minced meat (often lamb or beef) and onions. They are usually served with a side of sour cream or yogurt. These delicious dumplings are a popular choice for both locals and visitors in Shymkent.
3. Plov: Plov is a flavorful rice dish cooked with meat (usually lamb or beef), carrots, onions, and various spices. It is a staple in Kazakh cuisine and can be found in many restaurants in Shymkent. The dish is often garnished with fried onions and served with a side of pickles.
4. Lagman: Lagman is a hearty noodle soup that originated from the Uighur cuisine but has become popular in Kazakhstan. It typically consists of hand-pulled noodles, meat (such as beef or lamb), and a variety of vegetables, all cooked in a flavorful broth. This dish is perfect for warming up during the colder months in Shymkent.
5. Borscht: Borscht is a beetroot soup that is popular in many Eastern European countries, including Kazakhstan. It is made with beets, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and sometimes meat. The soup is often served with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill. It is a comforting and nutritious dish to try in Shymkent.
6. Shashlik: Shashlik is a popular grilled meat dish in Kazakhstan. It typically consists of skewered pieces of marinated meat (often lamb or beef) that are grilled to perfection. Shashlik is often served with a side of fresh vegetables, bread, and a variety of sauces. It is a great option for meat lovers visiting Shymkent.
7. Kumis: Kumis is a traditional Kazakh drink made from fermented mare's milk. It has a slightly sour taste and is often described as a cross between yogurt and beer. Kumis is believed to have health benefits and is considered a traditional remedy for various ailments. It is an interesting and unique beverage to try in Shymkent.
8. Kazakh Tea: Tea is an integral part of Kazakh culture, and trying Kazakh tea is a must when visiting Shymkent. Kazakh tea is typically served in a special teapot called a samovar and is accompanied by various snacks, such as nuts, dried fruits, and pastries. The tea is often brewed strong and can be enjoyed with or without sugar.
9. Kazakh Sweets: Shymkent is known for its delicious sweets and pastries. Some popular options include baursak (fried dough balls), chak-chak (honey and nut-based dessert), and kurt (dried yogurt balls). These sweet treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while exploring the culinary delights of Shymkent.
10. Kazakh Wines: Kazakhstan has a growing wine industry, and trying local Kazakh wines is a great way to experience the country's unique flavors. Shymkent is home to several wineries that produce a variety of wines, including both red and white. Sampling Kazakh wines can be a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts visiting Shymkent.
Best Time To Visit Shymkent
The best time to visit Shymkent, Kazakhstan is during the spring and autumn seasons, which are from April to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The spring season brings blooming flowers and green landscapes, while the autumn season offers beautiful foliage colors. Additionally, these seasons are less crowded with tourists compared to the summer months. It is important to note that Shymkent experiences extreme temperatures during the winter months, with sub-zero temperatures and heavy snowfall, making it less ideal for outdoor activities.
Flight Calendar For Shymkent
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Transportation To Shymkent
There are several transportation options to get to Shymkent, Kazakhstan:
1. By Air: The Shymkent International Airport (CIT) is the main airport serving the city. There are domestic and international flights connecting Shymkent to various destinations.
2. By Train: Shymkent is well-connected by rail to other major cities in Kazakhstan and neighboring countries. The city has a train station with regular train services.
3. By Bus: There are bus services available from various cities in Kazakhstan to Shymkent. The bus journey may take longer compared to other modes of transportation.
4. By Car: Shymkent is accessible by road, and there are highways connecting it to other cities in Kazakhstan. Renting a car or hiring a taxi is an option for traveling to Shymkent.
5. By Shared Taxi: Shared taxis, known as "marshrutkas," are a popular mode of transportation in Kazakhstan. They operate on fixed routes and can be a convenient and affordable option to reach Shymkent.
It is recommended to check the availability and schedules of transportation options before planning your trip to Shymkent, Kazakhstan.