Nur Sultan, Kazakhstan’s futuristic capital, is a city of bold architecture, cultural contrasts, and wide-open spaces. Unlike many cities, its skyline is a testament to modern ambition, with sites like the Bayterek Tower and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation standing out prominently. What makes Nur Sultan especially appealing for city tours is the mix of ultramodern structures and rich cultural heritage within a city that’s still shaping its identity.
We particularly love tours that combine in-depth exploration with authentic local insights, like the Astana City Tour: Private Full Day with Lunch and Comfort Pickup, which offers a comprehensive experience with a knowledgeable guide. For those with limited time, the Private Half-Day City Tour of Astana provides a quick but thorough overview, perfect for squeezing into a busy schedule. And if you’re intrigued by nightlife, the Explore Night City with a Certified Guide tour offers a chance to see Nur Sultan’s illuminated landmarks in a lively evening setting.
Quick Overview
Our list of the best city tours in Nur Sultan covers a range of experiences—from full-day private excursions to short, focused half-day tours. Whether you want a luxurious, private full-day exploration or a quick introduction with local insights, there’s a tour that fits your style. Some tours emphasize cultural history, like the National Museum of Kazakhstan, while others showcase architectural marvels, like the Khan Shatyr or the Grand Mosque. Many tours are highly rated, with perfect 5-star reviews from travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and seamless logistics. For more details about each experience, visit the individual pages linked throughout.
1. Astana City Tour: Private Full Day with Lunch and Comfort Pickup
At number 1, this private full-day tour excels for its depth and personalization. For around $149, you’ll spend 6 to 7 hours exploring Nur Sultan with a dedicated guide and private transport. This tour stands out because of its comprehensive itinerary, including iconic sites like the Bayterek Tower and the Nur-Astana Mosque, as well as lesser-known gems such as an early 20th-century merchant house.
What makes this tour truly special is its focus on authenticity. Your guide will take you beyond the typical photo stops and share stories about Kazakhstan’s history, culture, and future ambitions. Highlights include the panoramic views from Bayterek, the breathtaking Grand Mosque, and a visit to historic sites that reveal the city’s evolution. Reviews praise Sultan, the guide, for his local knowledge and engaging storytelling, making this a top-rated experience with a 5.0/5 rating from 67 reviews. The inclusion of lunch adds value, giving you a taste of Kazakh cuisine.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a fully personalized, in-depth look at Nur Sultan without feeling rushed, and willing to invest in a seamless, all-inclusive experience.
2. Private Half-Day City Tour of Astana (3-4 Hours)
For those on a tight schedule, the Private Half-Day City Tour is a perfect fit. Priced at $80, it covers the essentials in 3 to 4 hours, including key sites like the Nur-Astana Mosque and Bayterek Tower. This tour is praised for its personalized approach, with a private guide and driver making sure your interests are front and center.
What sets this tour apart is its efficient itinerary—visiting the Grand Mosque, with an option to ascend its minarets for great city views, and then taking in the symbolism of the Bayterek Tower. Reviews highlight how guide Beq was patient, knowledgeable, and gave practical restaurant recommendations, making this tour both informative and enjoyable. It’s excellent for travelers who want a quick overview without sacrificing depth or comfort.
Bottom line: Best suited for visitors with limited time who want a personalized, hassle-free introduction to Nur Sultan’s most famous landmarks.
3. Astana City Tour: Authentic Private Full Day with Lunch + Pickup
Another top choice for a full-day experience is the Authentic Private Full Day Tour, which emphasizes Kazakh culture and history alongside modern sights. For $149, this 6-7 hour tour includes visits to Bayterek Tower, the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, and the National Museum, giving a broad perspective on the city’s past and present.
The tour’s uniqueness lies in its focus on Kazakhstan’s history from the days of the Kazakh Khanate to today, blending cultural storytelling with sightseeing. Highlights include a walk around the Presidential Palace and an in-depth exploration of the National Museum, rated highly for its educational value. Reviewers note the guide’s professionalism and the tour’s comfortable pacing, making it perfect for history enthusiasts and first-timers alike.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking an immersive, culturally rich exploration of Nur Sultan within a full day.
4. Astana Unveiled: A City Comfort Tour with Lunch and Winetasting
At number 4, this city comfort tour combines sightseeing with a touch of local flavor through wine tasting. For about $149, you’ll spend roughly 6 hours exploring landmarks like the Aqorda Presidential Palace, Atyrau Bridge, and the Khan Shatyr. What makes this tour stand out is its relaxed pace and the inclusion of a wine tasting session, perfect for travelers interested in Kazakh beverages and local culture.
The tour includes visits to impressive architectural sites, a stroll along the Ishim River, and time for shopping, making it versatile. Travelers have praised the guide Timur for his personalized approach, with some noting how the tour helped them understand Kazakhstan’s political and cultural landscape. The blend of modern structures and local flavors makes this a well-rounded, engaging experience.
Bottom line: Best for those who appreciate a relaxed, multi-sensory experience combining sightseeing with local wines.
5. Half Day (3 hours) City Tour
For a quick but insightful look at Nur Sultan, the Half Day City Tour offers a solid 3-hour itinerary for $85. It features visits to Nur-Astana Mosque, Bayterek Tower, and the Khan Shatyr, along with a brief stop at the Nazarbayev University. It’s designed to give first-time visitors a taste of the city’s highlights without overdoing it.
The tour’s key strength is its accessibility and focus. Reviews mention that guide Damir was very knowledgeable and that the tour was perfect for families or travelers with limited time. It’s an excellent choice if you want a quick overview that hits the main sights with minimal fuss.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers wanting a short, efficient introduction to Nur Sultan’s main attractions.
6. Half Day Private Astana City Tour in Comfort
For those who prefer customized comfort, this private half-day tour is priced at $80. It covers key sites like the National Museum, Bayterek Tower, and the Khan Shatyr while providing a personalized experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore at their own pace without the rush of larger group tours.
The guide Nurmerey is praised for his thoughtfulness and fluency in English, making the experience both smooth and informative. The itinerary includes visits to Nazarbayev University and the Hazrat Sultan Mosque, with enough flexibility to adapt based on your interests. It’s a good option for those who want a more intimate exploration.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a customized, private experience with flexible timing.
7. The Old City Tour
If you’re interested in the historical roots of Nur Sultan, The Old City Tour offers a 3-4 hour private exploration of the city’s Soviet-era architecture and landmarks. Priced at $93.42, it takes you to important sites like the Atameken Ethno-Memorial Map, Saken Seifullin Museum, and the Monument to Khan Kenesary.
What truly sets this tour apart is its focus on Kazakh culture and local stories. The guide shares insights about the city’s development from a Soviet outpost to modern Kazakhstan. Reviewers mention the private transportation and local shopping experience at the Merchant Matvey Kubrin building as highlights.
Bottom line: A good choice for history lovers and those wanting to understand Kazakh culture and the city’s Soviet past.
8. Astana City Tour Explore Night City with a Certified Guide
For a different perspective, the Night City Tour offers a 3-4 hour exploration of Nur Sultan’s illuminated landmarks for just $70. This tour is perfect for those who appreciate night photography or want to see the city’s brightly lit skyline after sunset.
You’ll visit the Grand Mosque, Baiterek Tower, and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, among others. The guide will share insights into Kazakhstan’s challenging past and rapid development. Reviewers emphasize how the tour beautifully captures the city’s nighttime ambiance, making it a memorable highlight for many.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting to experience Nur Sultan’s nighttime beauty and enjoy a relaxed, atmospheric tour.
$70.00 per person
9. Full Day (6 hours) City Tour in Astana
Finally, the Full Day (6 hours) tour provides a balanced overview of Nur Sultan’s key sights for $150. With visits to Nur-Astana Mosque, Bayterek Tower, and the Khan Shatyr, it allows ample time to explore museums, shop, and enjoy local wine.
This tour is especially appealing to travelers wanting a comprehensive, well-paced day. It includes the National Museum of Kazakhstan and Zeleny Bazar for souvenirs, making it a versatile choice. Reviewers mention the efficient itinerary and the guide’s enthusiasm as strengths.
Bottom line: Suitable for those who want a full, detailed day exploring the diversity of Nur Sultan.
$150.00 per person
How to Choose the Best City Tour in Nur Sultan
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, available time, and interest focus. For deep historical and cultural insights, the Full Day Private Tour is hard to beat, especially if you want to learn about Kazakhstan’s journey from past to present. If your time is limited, the Half-Day Private Tour offers a quick, private introduction, perfect for busy schedules.
Those interested in architecture and modern landmarks might prefer the Unveiled City Comfort Tour with Winetasting, which combines sightseeing with tasting local wines. Night owls should look at the Explore Night City tour for its stunning illuminated views.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure preferred times and guides. Think about your interests—history, architecture, or nightlife—and choose accordingly. For a comprehensive experience, the Astana City Tour: Private Full Day is a top recommendation, but if you’re short on time, the half-day options are equally rewarding.
Final Thoughts
Nur Sultan’s city tours offer a wonderful way to see a city that’s constantly reinventing itself. From full-day immersions to quick highlights, there’s a tour tailored for every traveler. For history buffs, the Full Day Tour provides depth; for architecture lovers, the Unveiled or Night Tour showcase stunning sights; and for those with limited time, the Half-Day Tour delivers a quick yet rich introduction.
Remember to book early—these tours fill up fast, and a knowledgeable guide can turn a simple city walk into a memorable journey. Whatever your style, Nur Sultan’s unique blend of tradition and modernity awaits your discovery.