Shymkent

Asia

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Kazakhstan

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Shymkent

Shymkent, the third-largest city in Kazakhstan, beckons travelers with its rich history and vibrant culture. Located near the Uzbek border, Shymkent boasts a unique blend of influences, reflected in its architecture and cuisine. Shymkent is easily accessible by air. The Shymkent International Airport offers connections to major Kazakh cities and international hubs like Dubai, Moscow, and Istanbul.

This southern city enjoys a climate unlike other parts of Kazakhstan. Summers are hot and dry, perfect for exploring bustling markets or relaxing in outdoor cafes. Winters, however, are surprisingly mild compared to the north. Expect occasional snowfalls alongside winter rain.

Beyond its historical significance and pleasant climate, Shymkent is also a major center of trade. Nicknamed the "Green City" due to its abundance of parks and gardens, Shymkent was once a crucial stop along the Silk Road. Even today, the city thrives as a commercial hub, offering a glimpse into Central Asia's rich trading traditions.

Travel Tips for Shymkent Qalasy

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Shymkent

A guide to Shymkent's local transportation

Gypsy Cabs

Buses

Marshrutkas

These unofficial taxis are readily available throughout Shymkent. Flag one down and negotiate a fare before getting in. This option is budget-friendly, but be prepared to bargain, especially if you don't speak Kazakh.

Practical Tips for Shymkent

Things to prepare and best way to visit

Is Shymkent in Asia or Europe?

Shymkent is located in Central Asia. Kazakhstan, the country Shymkent belongs to, straddles both continents. The vast majority of Kazakhstan, including Shymkent, lies in Asia. However, a small western portion of the country dips into Eastern Europe.

What language is spoken in Shymkent?

Shymkent is a multilingual city, reflecting its rich cultural background. The two main languages spoken are Kazakh and Russian. Due to historical ties and a significant Russian population, Russian is also commonly used in Shymkent.

English is less prevalent, though you might encounter it in tourist areas or with younger generations. To fully immerse yourself in the local culture and navigate everyday situations, learning some basic Kazakh phrases would be helpful. However, you should be able to get by with Russian in most scenarios.

How are the weathers in Shymkent?

Shymkent's climate is a unique blend of continental and Mediterranean influences, offering distinct seasons throughout the year.

Summers are scorchers. With hot and dry weather, it's the perfect time to explore the city's vibrant outdoor markets or relax at cozy cafes with open-air seating. Be sure to pack sunscreen though, especially in August when it can get super hot and humid!

Winters, however, are surprisingly mild compared to northern cities in Kazakhstan. While snowfalls are common, they often mix with rain, creating a less severe winter experience. January, the coldest month, sees average temperatures around -1°C (30°F), a stark contrast to the harsher winters elsewhere in the country.

What is currency in Shymkent?

Shymkent, like the rest of Kazakhstan, uses the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT) as its currency. This information might be most helpful for budgeting your trip. Exchanging your USD to KZT can be done at currency exchange offices or banks upon arrival in Shymkent. For your reference, 1 USD is around 490 KZT.

How to get to Shymkent from Almaty?

Travelers seeking speed and comfort can fly between Almaty and Shymkent. Flights take just 3 hours and 6 minutes, with fares ranging from $30 to $130 (13,000 KZT to 58,000 KZT).

For a more budget-friendly option, trains offer a reliable alternative. Train journeys typically take around 9 hours and 49 minutes, with tickets costing between $7 and $40 (3,000 KZT to 18,000 KZT).

If you have ample time and want the most economical option, consider taking a bus. Buses travel between the two cities in about 16 hours and 37 minutes, with fares between $21 and $23 (9,500 KZT to 10,000 KZT).