What you should know before hiring a car in Astana
Astana city centre | ||
Astana International Airport (TSE): 18 km from city centre |
Practical information
Where to rent a car in Astana?
Astana is located in the north of Kazakhstan, and is the country's capital city. The city is served by Astana International Airport, from which arrivals can choose from a number of transport options to reach the city center, including taxi, private transfer, public bus, and rental car. The railway network in Kazakhstan is operated by Kazakhstan Temir Zholy, with the principle train station in Astana being Astana Nurly Zhol. However, for those who wish to see Kazakhstan at their own pace, traveling by rental car is a preferable option. Car rental services can be found at Astana International Airport as well as in the city center; companies such as Avis, Hertz, Rent-a-Car Asia and Grand Alem all offer car rentals in Astana.
Driving in Astana: parking and other tips
When driving in Astana, visitors must follow the road rules of Kazakhstan. These include driving on the right; only using a cell phone if in hands-free mode; and drinking absolutely no alcohol before getting behind the wheel, as Kazakhstan operates a very strict zero tolerance policy when it comes to drink driving. It is also worth nothing that visitors wishing to rent a car will need an International Driver's License, and will need to be over the age of 23. Road conditions in Astana are generally good, however there can be a high volume of traffic – particularly during rush hour. There are a number of paid parking lots in Astana, with a large number added in 2018; alternatively, leave your rental car at your hotel and see Astana on foot or by public transport.
Road trips from Astana
Astana is a city filled with modern landmarks, and its roads are well maintained. Located in northern Kazakhstan, it is a great destination in itself and a base from which to explore the rest of the country by rental car.
Astana to Karaganda
Astana became the capital city of Kazakhstan in 1997, and has seen a number of ultra-modern buildings added to its skyline in recent years. Bayterek Tower; the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation; and the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan are just a few examples. After exploring Astana, drive the 163 miles to the city of Karaganda. The fourth largest city in Kazakhstan, Karaganda is home to sights such as the Karaganda Ecological Museum and the KarLag Museum, which focuses on the KarLag labor camp created under Soviet rule.
Astana to Kostanay
Just over 436 miles from Astana by road, the city of Kostanay is found on the Tobol River in the Kostanay Region. Visitors can enjoy attractions such as the Bul'var Molodezhi park, and the Sofiya Water Park.
Astana to Almaty
While not close, Almaty is a must for visitors to Kazakhstan. Located in the south of the country, it was Kazakhstan's capital city until Astana took over the role in 1997. It is home to the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan, the A. Kasteyev State Museum of Arts, and the family-friendly Central Park. A number of stunning natural areas can be found around the city, including the Ile-Alatau National Park and the Medeo ski resort.