Welcome to Shymkent Plaza Travel Guide
Shymkent Plaza is a well-known commercial center located in Shymkent, one of Kazakhstan's most vibrant and culturally significant cities. Reaching Shymkent Plaza is quite easy whether you are already in the city or coming from a different city or country.
Arriving by Air
For international and long-distance domestic travellers, the Shymkent International Airport (CIT) serves as the main gateway to the city. Upon arrival at the airport, you can choose one of the following options to reach Shymkent Plaza:
- Taxi: The most convenient option. Several taxi companies operate at the airport; the ride to the plaza takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
- Rental Car: Various car rental agencies have counters at the airport. With a map or GPS, driving should be straightforward.
- Public Transportation: While less convenient, buses do operate routes that pass near Shymkent Plaza. Travel time will be longer due to frequent stops.
Arriving by Train
Shymkent is well-connected by rail with different parts of Kazakhstan and some surrounding countries. The city's Central Railway Station is the main hub for arriving trains. From the railway station:
- Taxi: A quick taxi ride will get you to the plaza.
- Public Bus: Cost-effective but less comfortable, buses run from the railway station to various parts of the city.
Arriving by Bus
Shymkent's Central Bus Station welcomes numerous intercity and international buses daily. A taxi or local bus from here can take you to Shymkent Plaza.
Arriving by Car
If you are driving to Shymkent:
- From Almaty: The A2 highway connects Almaty with Shymkent and is a scenic route.
- From Tashkent, Uzbekistan: The drive is straightforward via the M-39 highway, which directly leads to Shymkent.
Once in the city, Shymkent Plaza is well-signposted, and you can also use local navigation apps to find your way.
Local Tips:
- Expect some language barriers; having a translation app or a phrasebook can be helpful.
- Carry some Kazakh Tenge, the local currency, as not all places accept cards.
- Agree on the taxi fare beforehand or insist on using a meter to avoid being overcharged.
Enjoy your visit to Shymkent Plaza and the vibrant city of Shymkent!