Astana was built quickly on the open steppe after it was declared the capital of Kazakhstan in 1997. The new centre on the left bank of the Ishim is an architectural line running from the Baiterek Tower to Khan Shatyr and the Nur Alem sphere left over from EXPO 2017. Turkish Airlines, Pegasus and AJet fly direct from Turkiye to Astana, and the flight from Istanbul takes about 4 hours 55 minutes. Turkish citizens may enter without a visa for up to 30 days. Winter temperatures stay in the minus twenties for long stretches, so timing matters.
Looking for cheap flights or monthly payment flight packages to Astana?
Suso is a travel-planning platform that turns your Astana trip from Turkey into a buy now, pay later flight package: the ticket is issued by travel agencies, booking sites or airlines, and the payment plan runs on consumer credit from partner finance institutions. One click in the basket completes the purchase and the financing together; you pay over 3 to 24 months. No credit card limit needed.
See flights to Astana →When to visit Astana
May to September is the only comfortable stretch, with hot dry summers and July the easiest month. From November to March winters are severe, with temperatures staying below minus twenty for long spells.
Things to do in Astana
The Baiterek Tower
Ride up to the sphere atop the 97 metre tower and see the axial plan of the new centre from above.
Khan Shatyr
Walk the indoor streets of the 150 metre translucent tent, warm even in winter.
The Hazrat Sultan Mosque
See the white marble courtyard and tilework at one of Central Asia's largest mosques.
The Nur Alem sphere
Tour the eight-floor exhibition on future energy inside the spherical building left from EXPO 2017.
The National Museum of Kazakhstan
Follow a collection running from the Golden Man armour to steppe nomadism through its large halls.
The Pyramid of Peace and Reconciliation
Take a guided tour of the pyramid-shaped congress building known for its stained-glass apex.
Flights from Turkey to Astana
Astana is served by Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ), about 17 km from the city centre and reached in about 30 minutes by taxi or on bus number 10. Direct flights depart from both Istanbul airports and from Ankara.
Astana FAQ
How can I get an Astana flight package?
You can split the cost of your Astana flight package with Suso over 3 to 24 months, and no credit card limit is required.
Which airport serves Astana and how do I reach the city?
Flights land at Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ), about 17 km from the centre, reached in about 30 minutes by taxi or bus.
Are there direct flights from Turkiye to Astana, and is a visa needed?
Yes. Turkish Airlines, Pegasus and AJet fly direct from both Istanbul airports and from Ankara, and the flight takes about 4 hours 55 minutes. Turkish citizens may enter Kazakhstan without a visa for up to 30 days.
Buy now, pay later flights to Astana
Fly now, pay later. Plan your trip, pay over up to 24 months. One click at checkout sets up the plan, no credit card limit needed.
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