About Almaty

 

Almaty is where old-world charm meets bold modernity, nestled beneath the snow-dusted Tien Shan mountains. From high-rise luxury suites with panoramic views to sleek boutique stays near buzzing old-town bars, the best places to stay in Almaty reflect the city's rich contrasts. Whether you’re after palatial grandeur or contemporary comfort, our handpicked hotels make a stylish base for exploring this dynamic Central Asian hub.

Start your day in Gold Square, where leafy boulevards and Soviet-era landmarks set the tone for a cultural deep dive. History buffs can wander between neoclassical theatres and the Zenkov Cathedral, one of the world’s tallest wooden buildings. For high-end shopping and upscale dining, head to the glittering Esentai Mall — perfectly positioned for those who like to stay sky-high. Foodies will find modern Kazakh cuisine in atmospheric old-town restaurants, while those after global flavours can head to rooftop lounges serving sashimi with skyline views. Nightlife pulses from lively local bars to elegant cocktail haunts, many just steps from your front door.

Whether you're sightseeing, shopping or sipping espresso in a chic lobby café, there’s a hotel to match your style — and the city’s cosmopolitan energy.

The best places to stay in Almaty

For historic architecture

  • For a feel of the old world (on the outside anyway), book a room at the listed Dostyk Hotel. It's located in the centre of old Almaty in "Gold Square". so perfect for sight seeing.

For a Luxury Stay

  • The Ritz-Carlton, Almaty stands as a beacon of opulence, occupying the upper floors of the Esentai Tower, the tallest building in Central Asia. Guests are treated to panoramic views of the snow-capped Tien Shan mountains from floor-to-ceiling windows, enhancing the sense of grandeur. The hotel boasts spacious suites adorned with white jade marble bathrooms, a lavish spa, and a Sky Lounge & Bar on the 30th floor, offering an elevated dining experience

For small and chic

  • Sixty rooms might not constitute small in most cities, but our recommendations in Almaty don't come any smaller than the Worldhotel Saltanat Almaty. Chic, sleek interiors are the thing here, plus you're very close to the old town's bars and restaurants.

For business or leisure

  • The Intercontinental Almaty is a safe bet whether you're here on business or to sightsee. There's great food, indoor pool, tennis courts and much more!
  • Rixos Almaty offers a luxury stay in the heart of the city. Bedrooms are smart with marble bathrooms and there's a vast spa for pampering.

Still not sure which to book?

  • From city to slope, browse though our list of the best places to stay in Kazakhstan.
  • Why not expand your search to Astana.
  • Or contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.

Weather

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.

The best hotels in Almaty

Worldhotel Saltanat Almaty

Almaty

Renovated in 2010, Saltanat's sleek interiors attract an international crowd. Modern rooms are decorated in neutral palettes with pops of colour, featuring laptops and stylish bathrooms. There is a gym and restaurant and you are walking distance from the dining and boutiques of Almaty's 'Old Town'.

  • Local markets - Barakholka market displays trash and treasures from all over the world.
  • Sights nearby - Take the cable car up to Kök-Töbe for views across the city.
  • Restaurant
  • Great walks
from $182 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Dostyk Hotel

Almaty

Listed hotel located on the historic 'Gold Square'. Rooms are contemporary with polished wood floors and brightly upholstered sitting areas featuring large, mosaic tiled bathrooms. Orange restaurant serves gourmet Kazakh cuisine and Bastau Bar fine cocktails. There is a hammam, indoor pool and gym.

  • Local markets - Almaty's largest, green Market has delicious dried fruits and nuts, some less appetising snacks and bargain Chinese goods.
  • Great walks - Meander through leafy Panfilov Park and stop off at Zenkov Cathedral.
  • Sights nearby - Visit the Central Mosque, especially during Call to Prayer.
  • Spa
from $240 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

InterContinental Almaty

Almaty

A worldwide name providing unquestionable service. There is a global buffet breakfast and gourmet food at Asian Café, Belvedere and Bosphorus restaurants. There is an indoor pool, tennis courts, hammam and spa. Rooms are classic in style with plushly upholstered furnishings and modern bathrooms.

  • Birdwatching - Kazakhstan is home to golden eagles and they can be seen soaring through the mountain tops.
  • Tennis
  • Spa
  • Restaurant
from $255 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Rixos Almaty

Almaty

Past the Grand Budapest Hotel exterior this property provides a stately stay. Featuring private balconies rooms are decorated in floral wallpaper, traditional tiled floors and ornate furniture. Marble bathrooms have separate hot tub baths and shower. There is a 2200 m² and world cuisine restaurant.

  • Kayaking - With an abundance of lakes near Almaty there are many kayaking and white-water rafting opportunities.
  • Birdwatching - Golden eagles are a prominent sight in Kazakhstan and in rural areas they are used for hunting.
  • Sights nearby - Zenkov Cathedral, located in leafy Panfilov Park is a sunny structure visible form afar.
  • Spa
from $306 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Ritz-Carlton, Almaty

Almaty

A glitzy hotel, rising with aplomb at the foot of the Alatau Mountains. Almaty’s most luxurious accommodation provides an internationalised taste of Kazakhstan, while a variety of restaurants and gratis services pay homage to the nation’s legacy of hospitality

  • Museums - Immerse yourself in the city’s culture with a visit to the Central State Museum, showcasing Kazakhstan’s rich history & heritage
  • Skiing - Explore Shymbulak Ski Resort, just a short drive away, for world-class slopes and breathtaking views of the Tian Shan mountains
  • Hotel Entertainment - Sip cocktails and savour a gourmet meal at the elegant rooftop lounge, where panoramic views meet indulgent culinary delights
  • Great walks - Discover Big Almaty Lake, an azure gem in the mountains, perfect for hiking, photos, or simply soaking up the tranquillity
from $472 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees