Almaty walking tour: Zenkov Cathedral, bazaar and chocolate

Three hours on foot through Almaty's markets, parks and confectionery

A 3-hour walking tour of Almaty led by a local guide in English or Russian, visiting Zenkov Cathedral in Panfilov Park, the Green Bazaar, Arbat Street and a Rakhat Chocolate Shop. The guide handles the route and the stops; you walk at a steady pace through the city's cultural landmarks and street life. Wine tasting and local food tastings are available for an additional fee.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore Almaty city highlights

• Visit Zenkov Cathedral in Panfilov Park
• Explore Green Bazaar market
• Shop at Rakhat Chocolate Shop
• Stroll along Arbat Street

The Experience

The tour starts on Arbat Street, a pedestrian avenue lined with shops, cafes and street artists where you get a feel for how Almaty moves. From there the guide leads you into Panfilov Park to see Zenkov Cathedral, a Russian Orthodox church built entirely from wood despite the region's seismic activity—its golden domes and vibrant colors stand out against the park's green space. The walk then takes you to the Green Bazaar, a maze of stalls selling fresh produce, spices, dried fruits, nuts, dairy and traditional Kazakh products like kymyz and baursaks. You move through the market at the guide's pace, stopping to observe the vendors and the goods without a set itinerary within it.

The final stop is a Rakhat Chocolate Shop, where you can browse and sample some of Kazakhstan's most recognized confectionery—bars like Kazakhskiy feature honey, nuts and dried fruits. The guide wraps up the route there, leaving you free to shop or move on. If you want to extend the day, wine tasting at a local winery (15 dollars) or a tasting of local food (20 dollars) can be added at checkout. The whole route takes 3 hours and suits all fitness levels; strollers and prams are welcome for infants and small children.

What’s included

• Local guide in English or Russian.
• access to Zenkov Cathedral in Panfilov Park, the Green Bazaar and a Rakhat Chocolate Shop.
• the route through Arbat Street and all stops along the way.

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPets welcome

Operated by KazViaTours

Is this one for you?The tour moves at a steady walking pace for 3 hours through city streets and parks, so it suits anyone comfortable on foot for that stretch. If you prefer a shorter route or a slower pace, look for a half-day option or a private guide who can adjust the stops to your rhythm.

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Top questions

What is Zenkov Cathedral and why is it notable?

Zenkov Cathedral is a Russian Orthodox church in Panfilov Park built entirely from wood, an architectural feat in a region prone to earthquakes. Its golden domes and bright colors make it one of Almaty's most recognizable landmarks, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.

What will I see and do at the Green Bazaar?

The Green Bazaar is a sprawling market where you walk through stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, dried fruits, nuts, meats, dairy and traditional Kazakh products. You observe the vendors and the goods, and can sample homemade cheeses, sour cream and fermented dairy for an additional fee if you choose.

How long is the walking tour and what's the pace?

The tour runs 3 hours and moves at a steady walking pace through the city's streets and parks. It suits all fitness levels, and strollers or prams are fine for infants and small children.

Can I add food or wine tastings to this tour?

Yes, wine tasting at a local winery costs 15 dollars and a tasting of local food costs 20 dollars; both can be added when you book. They are not included in the base tour price.

What language does the guide speak?

The guide leads the tour in English or Russian; you choose your preferred language when you book.

What is Rakhat and why visit their shop?

Rakhat is one of Kazakhstan's most iconic chocolate brands. Their official shop in Almaty lets you sample and buy local confectionery like Kazakhskiy bars, which blend honey, nuts and dried fruits—a way to take home a taste of the region's culinary traditions.