Best Markets in Kazakhstan You Must Visit on Your Next Trip

Kazakhstan features exciting shopping opportunities across its cities. The best markets in Kazakhstan blend traditional bazaars with modern shopping centers. You can buy fresh produce, handmade crafts, felt products, and designer brands.

With the help of this guide, you will get to know about the top shopping markets in Kazakhstan in Almaty, Astana, and Shymkent. Furthermore, you’ll learn where to find local food markets, handicraft markets, luxury shopping spots, and traditional bazaars.

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16 Best Markets in Kazakhstan

1. Green Bazaar Almaty

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Green Bazaar opened in 1875 and remains the top local food market in Kazakhstan. This covered market sells fresh meat, fish, vegetables, cheese, dried fruits, nuts, honey, and spices. You’ll find traditional Kazakh sweets like chak-chak and baursak here.

The market also has stalls selling handmade crafts, felt products, traditional clothing, and souvenirs. Vendors encourage bargaining and offer free samples of honey, nuts, and dried fruits.

• Highlights: Fresh produce, meat, fish, cheese, dried fruits, nuts, honey, spices, handmade crafts
• Timings: Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
• Address: улица Жибек Жолы 53, Almaty 050000, Kazakhstan

2. Arbat Street

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Arbat Street, also called Zhibek Zholy, is the main pedestrian street for shopping in Kazakhstan. This lively avenue stretches from Abylai Khan Avenue to Furmanov Street. You can visit shops, cafes, and street vendors selling clothes, accessories, and souvenirs.

Street musicians and artists perform daily, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The area has handicraft markets where local painters and craftsmen display their work.

• Highlights: Clothing, accessories, souvenirs, cafes, street performances, art displays
• Timings: Daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM (Hours may vary based on shops.)
• Address: Moscow, Russia

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3. Esentai Mall

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Esentai Mall is one of the best luxury shopping spots in Kazakhstan. This upscale shopping center in Almaty features international brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, Burberry, and Michael Kors. The mall offers discounts up to 70% during sales periods.

The complex includes The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, fine dining restaurants, a fitness club, a spa, and a cinema. Easy access by both public transport and car makes shopping convenient.

• Highlights: Luxury brands, designer fashion, fine dining, spa, fitness center, cinema
• Timings: Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Address: Al-Farabi Avenue 77/8, Almaty 050040, Kazakhstan

4. Mega Alma-Ata

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Mega Alma-Ata is the largest shopping and entertainment complex in Almaty. This massive mall houses international brands like Zara, H&M, and Massimo Dutti, and hundreds of local stores. You’ll find clothing, electronics, home goods, and cosmetics.

The entertainment section includes a cinema, ice skating rink, and indoor playground. The food court offers burgers, Asian cuisine, and local Kazakh dishes.

• Highlights: International brands, electronics, cinema, ice rink, restaurants, entertainment
• Timings: Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Address: Rozybakiev Street 247А, Almaty 050060, Kazakhstan

5. Dostyk Plaza

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Dostyk Plaza combines international and local brands in a modern setting. This centrally located mall has stores like LC Waikiki, Zara, Guess, Levi’s, and Sulpak electronics. A cinema and multiple restaurants provide entertainment options.

The spacious layout makes shopping comfortable. The mall serves both locals and tourists looking for mid-range fashion and quality products.

• Highlights: Fashion brands, electronics, cinema, restaurants, and entertainment facilities
• Timings: Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Address: Mikrorayon Samal-2 111, Almaty 050000, Kazakhstan

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6. Mega Park Almaty

Mega Park is a family-friendly shopping destination perfect for a weekend market atmosphere. This multi-story complex has hundreds of shops selling clothing, shoes, accessories, and home goods. The entertainment zone features arcades, kids’ play areas, and a cinema.

Restaurants and cafes throughout the mall serve international and Kazakh cuisine. The location makes it easily accessible from different parts of Almaty.

• Highlights: Clothing, shoes, entertainment, cinema, restaurants, kids’ play areas
• Timings: Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Address: Mukagali Makataev Street 127/1, Almaty 050000, Kazakhstan

7. Khan Shatyr

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Khan Shatyr opened in 2010 as the world’s largest tent structure. This three-story entertainment complex in Astana features dozens of stores offering international brands. The unique building includes a wave pool, sauna, and amusement rides.

The design provides an indoor shopping experience during Kazakhstan’s harsh winters. Kids love the entertainment center while adults shop at various boutiques.

• Highlights: International brands, wave pool, entertainment rides, restaurants, and unique architecture
• Timings: Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Address: Turan Ave 37, Astana 020000, Kazakhstan

8. Mega Silk Way

Mega Silk Way near the EXPO site is one of the top shopping markets in Kazakhstan. This two-level complex offers international brand stores and entertainment facilities. The Happylon indoor center has arcade games, racing cars, and 3D battle simulations.

Families enjoy the mix of shopping and activities. The food court provides diverse dining options for all tastes.

• Highlights: International brands, entertainment center, arcades, restaurants, family activities
• Timings: Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Address: 010000, Qabanbay Batyr Ave 62, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan

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9. Central Market Astana

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Central Market blends a traditional bazaar atmosphere with modern shopping mall features. Located on the city outskirts, this large complex sells fresh produce, spices, traditional handicrafts, and household items. The market hosts cultural events and performances.

You can try authentic Kazakh dishes like Beshbarmak and Plov at various eateries. Local artisans showcase their crafts throughout the market.

• Highlights: Fresh produce, spices, handicrafts, traditional food, cultural events
• Timings: Daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Address: Alash Hwy 15, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan

10. Astanalyk Bazaar

Astanalyk Bazaar operates 24 hours, selling everything from fresh produce to electronics. This multi-floor wholesale market in Kazakhstan has sections for fruits, vegetables, spices, clothing, shoes, and household items. The bottom floor focuses on fresh produce.

You can find vintage items and unique treasures while exploring different sections. Bargaining is expected, and vendors welcome negotiations.

• Highlights: Fresh produce, spices, clothing, shoes, electronics, household items, vintage goods
• Timings: Daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Address: Säken Seyfullin St 47, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan

11. Eurasia Shopping Mall

Eurasia Shopping Mall in Astana stands as one of Kazakhstan’s major retail destinations, divided into three distinct sections. Eurasia 1 on Petrov Street houses groceries and budget-friendly clothing options. Eurasia 3 contains higher-end fashion boutiques with premium pricing.

The mall blends European and Asian design elements, reflecting Kazakhstan’s position between two continents. Shoppers find both international brands and quality local products across fashion, beauty, jewelry, and household categories. Weekend farmers’ markets add local flavor with fresh produce and artisanal items.

• Highlights: Dairy products, fresh greens, farm products, international goods
• Timings: Daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
• Address: Petrov St 24, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan

12. Barakholka Market

Barakholka Market spreads across several kilometers along Almaty’s Northern Ring Road, forming Central Asia’s second-largest bazaar. The name translates to “flea market” in Russian, originating from its informal trading roots in the 1990s after the Soviet Union’s collapse. 

Traders sell an enormous variety of goods. Shoppers find everything from traditional Kazakh clothing and handicrafts to electronics, furniture, kitchenware, bathroom fixtures, and imported Chinese products. The market provides employment for thousands, many from neighboring Central Asian countries.

• Highlights: Traditional Kazakh attire, household goods, electronics, furniture, clothing, bargain shopping
• Timings: Daily, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Monday)
• Address: 7VQR+QC3, Almaty, Kazakhstan

13. Qyrgy Bazar

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Qyrgy Bazar, also called Upper Bazaar, sits between Ordabasy Square and Shamshi’s World in Shymkent. This vibrant marketplace retains the Silk Road atmosphere. You can buy national products, spices, vegetables, fruits, sweets, and nuts at reasonable prices.

The colorful displays and friendly vendors create an engaging shopping experience. Bargaining is common practice here.

• Highlights: Spices, sweets, nuts, fruits, vegetables, and traditional products
• Timings: Daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Closed on Monday)
• Address: Tashenov Street, Shymkent, Kazakhstan

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14. Aina Bazaar

Aina Bazaar is a bustling traditional market serving as the heart of Shymkent’s shopping scene. This market sells fresh produce, cheese, meat, dried fruits, nuts, household items, and clothing. Each section has dedicated areas.

The produce section always stocks fresh items at affordable prices. Locals do much of their food shopping here daily.

• Highlights: Fresh produce, cheese, meat, dried fruits, nuts, household goods, clothing
• Timings: Daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Closed on Monday)
• Address: Zhusipbek Aymauytov St 143A, Shymkent, Kazakhstan

15. Shymkent Plaza

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Shymkent Plaza is a modern shopping center with international and local brands. The spacious interior includes a cinema on the top floor showing movies in Russian, Kazakh, and English. A grocery store and food court complete the offerings.

The mall provides comfortable shopping with air conditioning and an organized layout. It’s popular among families and young shoppers.

• Highlights: International brands, cinema, grocery store, food court
• Timings: Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Address: Әл-Фараби алаңы 3/1, Shymkent 160019, Kazakhstan

16. Mega Planet Shymkent

Mega Planet combines shopping with entertainment facilities. This modern mall has diverse brand stores, restaurants, a cinema, and a kids’ center. The skating rink provides year-round ice skating.

The complex attracts visitors looking for a complete shopping and entertainment experience. Multiple dining options serve international and local cuisine.

• Highlights: Brand stores, cinema, skating rink, restaurants, entertainment
• Timings: Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Address: Tauke Khan Ave 13, Shymkent, Kazakhstan

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FAQs

What can you buy at markets in Kazakhstan?

You can buy fresh produce, meat, fish, dried fruits, nuts, honey, spices, felt products, traditional clothing, handmade carpets, jewelry, pottery, handicrafts, electronics, and international fashion brands at Kazakhstan’s diverse markets.

Are the best markets in Kazakhstan safe?

Yes, markets in Kazakhstan are generally safe. Watch your belongings in crowded areas and stay alert. Vendors are friendly, and most markets have security, and bargaining is a normal practice in the markets.

When should you visit Kazakhstan markets?

Visit traditional markets early morning for fresh produce and fewer crowds. Shopping malls are open from 10 AM to 10 PM. Weekend markets operate on Saturdays and Sundays. Some wholesale markets stay open 24 hours.

Do Kazakhstan markets accept cards?

Modern malls and larger stores accept credit cards. Traditional bazaars and street vendors prefer cash in Kazakhstani tenge. Some vendors use Kaspi digital payment. Carry cash when visiting local markets.

Can you bargain at Kazakhstan markets?

Yes, bargaining is expected and welcome at traditional bazaars, flea markets, and handicraft markets. Negotiate politely with vendors. Modern malls and chain stores have fixed prices. Friendly haggling is part of the experience.

What are famous flea markets in Kazakhstan?

Orbita Market in Almaty, Astanalyk Bazaar in Astana, and sections of Qyrgy Bazar in Shymkent are famous flea markets in Kazakhstan selling vintage items, secondhand goods, and unique treasures.

Where are the best local food markets in Kazakhstan?

Green Bazaar in Almaty, Artyom Market in Astana, Aina Bazaar in Shymkent, and Eurasia Market are the best local food markets in Kazakhstan for fresh produce, meat, dairy, and traditional foods.

What are the best markets in Kazakhstan for tourists?

Green Bazaar, Arbat Street, and Esentai Mall in Almaty; Khan Shatyr and Mega Silk Way in Astana; and Qyrgy Bazar and Shymkent Plaza are the best markets in Kazakhstan, offering authentic shopping experiences and modern conveniences for tourists.