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Dive deep into the history and culture of Kazakhstan at the Central State Museum. This cultural attraction tells the country’s story from prehistoric times to the Mongol period, as well as the Soviet occupation. You will find the museum in the central square, opposite the political administration buildings. 

Do not leave without exploring the colourful Zenkov (Ascension) Cathedral. The impressive building is made completely from wood – and no nails were used to keep the structure together. If that is not impressive enough, this was one of only a few buildings in the city to remain intact following an earthquake in the city in 1911. The cathedral is a particularly spectacular sight in winter when it is covered by a dusting of snow. 

Elsewhere, the Kazakhstan Museum of the Arts (also called the A. Kasteyev State Museum) is home to one of the finest collections of Russian and Western European art anywhere in the country. 

For the ultimate relaxation, head for the Arasan baths complex, just west of Panfilov Park. The baths have been in operation here since 1981, and hidden away beneath the tiled domes are a Finnish sauna, a Moroccan hammam, a Russian banya and a Turkish steam bath. It is best to set aside two hours or so to make the most of the baths, plus a little bit longer if you fancy a massage. 

For a trip out of town, head for Big Almaty Lake in the Tien Shan mountains – a popular hangout for locals. Swimming is not allowed here, but why not bring a picnic and find a spot on the rocks by the lake? 

Another out-of-town attraction close to the lake is the magnificent Ile-Alatau National Park. This dramatic wilderness covers 2,000 square kilometres and is made up of dense spruce forest, meadows and the Zailiysky Alatau mountains.

Right in the heart of town, Afisha is a busy restaurant with views of the Stalinist State Opera House. Try the mushroom risotto and you will be in for a treat. Housed within one of the tallest buildings in the city, Vista at the Ritz Carlton also boasts beautiful panoramas over the city and the mountains beyond. Go for lunch to enjoy local kebab specialties, before sampling the stunning patisseries. 

For the ultimate gourmet affair, make your way to Seven. Here you can savour an evening with experimental amuse-bouches and Kazakh dishes with a luxury twist, complete with piano and violin playing in the background. There is decent Kazak wine, called Ak Bastau, on the menu too which comes from the Assa Valley just outside the city. 

At the other end of the scale, Kaganat is a beloved local spot where you can get a plate of food for just over US $1. This canteen-style eatery serves up traditional Kazakh cooking day and night, including lagman (noodles) to manti (dumplings). It is such great value you can give them all a try.

Shopping in Almaty is mainly focused around the busy outdoor markets. The city has an array of bazaars, where you can buy fresh fruit, vegetables, handmade rugs and local handicrafts. The Green Bazaar is one of the most popular, located on the Silk Road trading route that was used for hundreds of years as a corridor of trade between Europe and Asia. It is always busy with both locals and tourists andis well worth a visit for the atmosphere alone. 

Elsewhere, Almaty also has more elegant shopping destinations to discover. Dostyk Plaza is a sparkling shopping mall with plenty of brand-name shops and entertainment venues. The food hall on the ground floor is a particularly glamorous affair.