Kostanay

Kostanay is the capital of Qostanay Region in northern Kazakhstan, located near the Russian border. It is an agricultural centre for the surrounding grain-growing region. The city has broad Soviet boulevards, a central square, and a mix of Soviet and modern architecture.

By Plane

Kostanay Airport (KSN) serves flights from Almaty and Astana. Taxi to centre approximately 1,500 KZT.

By Train

Kostanay railway station connects to Astana, Almaty, and Russian cities. Book via railways.kz.

By Car / Road

On the A-22 highway connecting Astana (570 km east) to Chelyabinsk, Russia (200 km north). Buses from Astana and Russian cities.

The settlement is compact enough to explore on foot. For longer trips, shared taxis (marshrutkas) and local buses serve the area. Ride-hailing apps like Yandex Taxi operate in larger towns.

• Kostanay Regional Museum — natural history and culture of the region

• Victory Monument — WWII memorial in the central square

• Al-Farabi Mosque — the city's main mosque

• Tobyl River embankment

• Botanical Garden — green space with diverse plant species

• Walking tours — explore the town's streets and local architecture

• Day trips — visit nearby natural attractions

• Cultural experiences — attend local festivals and traditional Kazakh events

Kazakh cuisine features meat dishes (beshbarmak, shashlik), dairy products, and bread. Local cafes (asxana) serve hearty Kazakh meals. Halal food is widely available throughout the region.

Tea houses (chaikhanas) are common throughout Kazakhstan, serving traditional tea. Bottled water is recommended for drinking. Local dairy beverages like kumis (fermented mare's milk) and shubat (fermented camel's milk) are available in rural areas.

• Budget: Tobyl Hotel — 5,000-9,000 KZT
• Mid-range: Kostanay Hotel — 10,000-18,000 KZT
• Upscale: Al-Farabi Hotel — 20,000-35,000 KZT

Local markets offer traditional Kazakh handicrafts, textiles, and food products. The central bazaar is the best place for souvenirs and everyday items. Bargaining is expected at markets.

• Rudny (60 km) — iron ore mining city
• Naurzum Nature Reserve (150 km) — UNESCO-recognized nature reserve
• Chelyabinsk, Russia — major Ural city