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1. Baiterek Tower, Astana, Kazakhstan
You might not expect to find a futuristic skyline in the middle of Central Asia, but that's exactly what awaits in Astana. The city's most recognisable landmark is Baiterek Tower, a 105-metre monument topped with a striking golden sphere.
The tower is inspired by Kazakh mythology and represents a mythical tree of life. Head up to the observation deck and you'll get a bird's-eye view of Astana's modern architecture, making it a good first stop for seeing just how much the capital has transformed.
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2. Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan
If you're after something more adventurous, make your way from Almaty to Charyn Canyon. The vast landscape is filled with towering red rock formations that have been shaped by millions of years of erosion.
One of the most impressive sections is the Valley of Castles, where the rock formations rise dramatically on both sides of the canyon and look almost like the remains of an ancient fortress. It's the kind of place that makes you forget you're still in the same country as Kazakhstan's modern cities.
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3. Shymbulak Mountain Resort, Almaty, Kazakhstan
Just outside Almaty, the scenery quickly changes from city streets to snow-capped mountains. Shymbulak Mountain Resort is one of the easiest ways to experience the Tian Shan mountains without venturing too far from the city.
Take the cable car up the mountain for panoramic views, or visit during winter for skiing and snow activities. In warmer months, the resort becomes a base for hiking and enjoying the alpine scenery, so there's a reason to visit beyond ski season.
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4. Registan Square, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Step into Samarkand's Registan Square and it's easy to see why the city was once one of the most important stops along the Silk Road. The grand square is framed by three historic madrasahs, each covered in intricate blue tiles, arches, and geometric patterns.
The square dates back centuries and was once a major centre of learning during the Timurid era. Today, it remains one of Uzbekistan's most photographed landmarks and a must-see for anyone interested in the region's history and architecture.
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5. Tashkent TV Tower, Uzbekistan
If you prefer modern landmarks, the Tashkent TV Tower is hard to miss. Standing 375 metres tall, it is one of the defining features of Uzbekistan's capital and remains the tallest building in the country.
Visitors can head up to the observation areas for sweeping views across Tashkent. There is even a revolving restaurant at around 110 metres, giving you a different way to take in the city from above.
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6. Ala-Archa National Park, Kyrgyzstan
Just around 40 kilometres south of Bishkek, Ala-Archa National Park is an easy way to escape the city and experience the Tian Shan mountains. The park stretches from forested valleys at around 1,500 metres to glaciated peaks above 4,800 metres.
You also don't need to be an experienced mountaineer to enjoy it. There are shorter riverside walks and hiking routes, while more challenging trails lead deeper into the mountains. For travellers looking to experience Kyrgyzstan's landscapes without committing to a multi-day trek, this makes a great addition to the itinerary.
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