Astana City Tour: Certified Guide+Winetasting+All Inclusive

Planning to visit Kazakhstan’s futuristic capital, Astana (formerly Nur-Sultan)? If so, chances are you’re after an experience that blends sightseeing with cultural insights, authentic local flavors, and comfortable logistics. The Astana City Tour offered by Discover Astana – Guided Tours appears to tick all these boxes — and more. We’ve gathered abundant feedback and details to give you an honest, comprehensive look at what this tour promises and whether it’s worth your time and money.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the expert local guides who bring Astana’s sights and stories to life. Second, the all-inclusive nature, covering entrance fees, lunch, and WiFi, offering convenience and good value. Third, the opportunity to sample Kazakh and Uyghur cuisine along with wine tasting, enriching your cultural understanding. The only caution? The tour is quite structured, so if you prefer a totally free-form exploration, this might feel a bit curated. However, for travelers eager to get a well-rounded introduction to the city with comfort and depth, this tour can be an ideal choice.

Best suited for travelers who appreciate guided storytelling, want a rundown in one day, and enjoy tasting local foods and drinks. It’s particularly helpful if your time in Astana is limited but you want to maximize exposure to its key sights and culture.

Good To Know

• Expert local guides ensure a detailed and engaging narration of Astana’s sights and stories
• All-inclusive package offers convenience with entrance fees, lunch, WiFi, and bottled water
• Cultural insights enhanced by visits to landmarks like Bayterek Tower and the Palace of Peace
• Authentic cuisine and wine tasting add a flavorful layer to the city exploration
• Comfortable private setting with a focus on learning, not just sightseeing
• Flexible booking options with pay later and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour aims to give you a complete picture of Astana, combining famous landmarks with historical explanations. It’s designed as a private experience — giving you the chance to ask questions, pause for photos, and enjoy the commentary at your pace. The tour’s estimated price is $129 per person, which, considering all inclusions, seems quite reasonable for a day packed with sights and stories.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with a pickup, typically arranged from your hotel or a central location, then heads straight into the city’s highlights. Expect to see the Ak Orda Presidential Palace, a striking government building that symbolizes Kazakhstan’s modern governance and national identity. The Bayterek Tower is next — a must-visit for its panoramic views and symbolic design representing Kazakhstan’s aspirations.

Guides will not only show you these landmarks but also share their stories. For example, Giulia highlights the charm of the local winery, which adds a more personal touch to the day. She describes her experience as “full of stories about the history and culture of Kazakhstan,” emphasizing how the guide’s storytelling brought the city to life.

Visiting Key Landmarks

• Palace of Peace and Reconciliation: an architectural marvel that symbolizes interfaith harmony, often sparking discussions about Kazakhstan’s religious diversity.
• National Museum: a treasure trove of Kazakh history, art, and culture, providing context for the city’s rapid development.
• Russian Orthodox Church & The Grand Mosque: offering insights into the religious fabric of Astana.
• Atyrau Bridge & Khan Shatyr: modern structures that showcase Astana’s innovative urban design.
• Mangilik El Arch: a symbol of Kazakhstan’s enduring identity.

The Experience Beyond Sightseeing

The tour’s highlight is the lunch and wine tasting. Guests rave about the quality and authenticity of the food, with some noting that the dishes burst with flavors typical of Kazakh and Uyghur cuisine. The wine tasting adds a sophisticated touch, giving visitors a chance to appreciate local beverages in a relaxed setting.

Giulia appreciated the charm of the winery visit, saying, “On top of that Damir’s driving during the day felt seamless and very comfortable unlike local taxis.” Feelings of safety and comfort are echoed in multiple reviews, especially important for solo travelers or those unfamiliar with local traffic.

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Guides and Personal Touch

The guides shine in this experience. Damir, often praised as knowledgeable, passionate, and friendly, makes the tour memorable. Reviewers mention his fluency in English, ease of storytelling, and willingness to adapt the schedule — such as Mariette’s comment about modifying the itinerary to include a trip into the steppe for a touch of nature.

One review by Mitchell, who especially appreciated Damir’s enthusiasm, remarked, “His love for his job was evident in his meticulous attention to detail and his eagerness to answer my questions.” Such personal touches can transform a standard city tour into an engaging learning experience.

Practical Details and Tips

Duration: Typically a full-day experience, allowing enough time at each sight without feeling rushed.
Price: $129 per person, which covers most expenses including entrance fees, lunch, WiFi, and bottled water. This all-in-one package simplifies planning and prevents surprise costs.
Transport: Private guide and vehicle ensure comfort, with reviews indicating a smooth and seamless experience.
Language: Tours are conducted in English and Russian — perfect for international travelers or Russian speakers.
What to Bring: A head covering or kippah, especially for the mosque and church visits.
What’s Not Included: Alcoholic beverages and dinner — so you might want to explore local dining options afterward.

Booking Flexibility: You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility is ideal if your plans change unexpectedly.

Authentic Experiences and Review Highlights

Many travelers highlight Damir’s storytelling ability and his genuine enthusiasm for Kazakhstan’s culture. As Mitchell notes, “His proficiency in English was impressive, allowing for seamless communication and a deeper appreciation of the narratives he shared.” The tour isn’t just about snapping photos but understanding what you’re seeing — from the symbolism of the Bayterek Tower to the significance of the Mangilik El Arch.

The culinary component receives praise for authenticity. The dishes are described as flavorful, with many reviewers remarking on the delight of sampling local Kazakh and Uyghur cuisine paired with quality wine. Such experiences are rare on standard city tours and add real value.

Additional Perks

Guests also appreciate the inclusion of free WiFi, making it easier to share moments or look up additional info on the fly. Bottled water keeps everyone refreshed during the city’s walks, and the detailed itinerary ensures no major sight is missed.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re after a well-rounded introduction to Astana, this tour hits many of the right notes. The combination of a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and the chance to learn about Kazakhstan’s culture and history makes it a great value at $129. The emphasis on storytelling and authentic experiences, like the local cuisine and wine tasting, adds depth that many basic sightseeing tours lack.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who prefer guided experiences over solo exploration, or those with limited time wanting to cover a lot of ground in one day. The flexible booking and positive reviews reinforce that this tour is reliable and thoughtfully curated.

However, if you’re seeking a more spontaneous or independent adventure, or if you prefer to explore at your own pace without scheduled stops, this might feel a bit structured. Also, keep in mind that the tour is mostly focused on city sights and cultural insights; it doesn’t include extensive outdoor or nature excursions.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers? Yes. Many reviewers mention feeling safe and comfortable, and the private guide creates a welcoming atmosphere for solo guests.

Does the tour include entrance fees? Yes, the fee covers entrance to Bayterek Tower and other listed landmarks.

What language is the tour conducted in? Primarily English and Russian, so check with the provider if you prefer a specific language.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear? Dress modestly and bring a head covering or kippah for mosque and church visits.

Are meals included? Lunch is included, featuring Kazakh or Uyghur cuisine. Alcoholic drinks and dinner are not part of the package.

Is WiFi available during the tour? Yes, free WiFi is included, which is great for sharing moments or checking maps.

Final Verdict

The Astana City Tour with Discover Astana offers a detailed, engaging, and comfortable way to explore Kazakhstan’s capital. Guided by passionate locals, you’ll see the key sights, learn their stories, and taste local flavors, all in one package. It’s ideal for travelers eager to get a meaningful overview of Astana without the stress of planning every detail. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply curious, this tour packs a lot into a single day and provides a solid foundation for understanding this rapidly changing city.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby