Arbat Street in both Astana and Almaty reflects Kazakhstan’s modern spirit and cultural diversity. Astana’s Arbat, located on Azerbaijan Mambetov Street, emerged in 2017 as a vibrant pedestrian zone, while Almaty’s Arbat, also known as Zhybek Zholy Street, has been a bustling shopping hub since the late 1980s. Both streets are designed to foster community interaction, creativity, and entertainment.
History of Arbat Street
- Astana’s Arbat: The concept of creating Astana’s Arbat was initiated by Arai Ordabayeva, a public figure who recognized the need for affordable exhibition spaces for local artisans. The street was developed just before EXPO-2017, aiming to provide a cultural attraction for international visitors.
- Almaty’s Arbat: Historically, Zhybek Zholy Street was a central gathering place in Verny (the old name for Almaty) from the mid-19th century. It became a hub for youth meetings and city events during Soviet times. After becoming a pedestrian zone in the late 1980s, it has continued to evolve as a vibrant cultural and shopping destination.
Attractions at Arbat Street
Astana’s Arbat:
- Trade Pavilions: Offering jewelry, books, and handicrafts.
- Street Performances: Musicians, dancers, and artists showcase their talents.
- Unique Attractions: A replica of the Game of Thrones throne and life-size statues of The Beatles.
- Bench of Reconciliation: Encourages unity by bringing people closer together.
Almaty’s Arbat:
- Shopping: High-end brands like Mango and Zara alongside local boutiques and handicraft stores.
- TSUM Department Store: A hybrid of a department store and a bazaar.
- Cafes and Restaurants: Offering local Kazakh and international cuisines.
- Live Performances: Street musicians, magicians, and impromptu flash mobs.
Things to Do at Arbat Street
Astana’s Arbat:
- Explore Trade Pavilions: Discover unique handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Attend Cultural Events: Enjoy concerts, festivals, and competitions.
- Participate in Karaoke: Join in on free karaoke sessions.
- Visit the Open-Air Cinema: Experience movie nights under the stars.
Almaty’s Arbat:
- Shopping and Dining: Explore a variety of shops and restaurants.
- Attend Art Festivals: Participate in events like ArtBatFest.
- Enjoy Live Performances: Watch street musicians and artists.
- Relax at Cafes: Unwind in the lively atmosphere.
Arbat Street – Entry Eligibility and Open Timings
- Astana’s Arbat: Generally open during daylight hours, with extended activities during evenings and weekends.
- Almaty’s Arbat: Open daily, with peak activity during the warmer months from May to September.
How Long to Spend at Arbat Street
Visitors can spend anywhere from a few hours to a full day exploring each Arbat Street. A leisurely stroll and some shopping might take a few hours, while attending events or enjoying performances could extend your visit.
How to Get There
Astana’s Arbat:
- By Taxi: Convenient and quick from the city center.
- Public Transport: Bus lines such as 12, 37, 40, 47, 48, and 53 stop nearby.
- Walking: Accessible on foot from central Astana.
Almaty’s Arbat:
- By Taxi: Easy access from any part of the city.
- Public Transport: Several bus lines connect to the area.
- Walking: Ideal for exploring on foot, given its pedestrian-friendly nature.
Eateries Nearby Arbat Street
Here are some recommended eateries for both cities:
Astana:
- Rakhat Chocolate Factory: Known for its delicious chocolates and cozy atmosphere.
- Zhetysu Restaurant: Specializes in traditional Kazakh and Russian cuisine.
- Line Brew: Offers a modern café experience with craft beers.
- PECTOPAH: Provides stunning views along with exquisite cuisine.
- Turkish Restaurant Sultan: Offers authentic Turkish dishes.
- Kok-Tobe Restaurant: Located on a hill, it offers panoramic views of the city.
Almaty:
- Kazakh Aul Restaurant: Offers traditional Kazakh cuisine.
- Silk Way Cuisine: Provides a mix of local and international flavors.
- The Nomad’s Tent: Known for its authentic Central Asian dishes.
- Lagman Noodle House: Specializes in Lagman.
- Baursak Street Food: Offers tasty fried snacks.
- Shymkent Bazaar: A bustling marketplace with local delicacies.
Other Attractions Nearby Arbat Street
Astana:
- Bayterek Tower: An iconic observation tower offering panoramic views.
- Nur Astana Mosque: A modern mosque with beautiful architecture.
- Hazret Sultan Mosque: One of the largest mosques in Central Asia.
- National Museum of Kazakhstan: A comprehensive museum showcasing the country’s history.
Almaty:
- Green Bazaar: A bustling marketplace for fresh produce and souvenirs.
- Panfilov Park: A scenic park with historical significance.
- Zenkov Cathedral: A beautiful wooden cathedral.
- Kolsai Lakes: A series of pristine lakes nearby.
Arbat Street is one of the most vibrant and historic streets in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Known for its lively atmosphere, this pedestrian-friendly area is a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Visitors to Arbat Street can enjoy local street performances, admire unique art displays, and explore various shops selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and fashion.
The street is lined with charming cafes and restaurants, making it a perfect spot to relax and experience Almaty’s cultural scene. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll, a taste of local cuisine, or a place to shop, Arbat Street offers a dynamic and memorable experience for tourists and locals alike.