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Bishkek has many moments of beauty, but it's the Tien Shan mountains that are the real scenic draw of Kyrgyzstan.

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As a leading travel agency in Bishkek, Exploring Tourism aims to make your visit truly unforgettable. Our expert Bishkek travel agent know all about its vibrant culture, history, and hidden gems, ensuring that you experience all it has to offer during your stay here. When you choose us as your travel agency in Bishkek, you gain access to our extensive knowledge and expertise. Every traveler is unique; therefore, we take the time to listen carefully to your preferences and interests before creating tailored itineraries that best meet your needs. No matter whether it is history, food, or adventure you seek, we have something in Bishkek just right for you!

Our travel agent in Bishkek will take care of organizing all aspects of your trip, from booking flights and accommodations to organizing guided tours and activities. We collaborate closely with a network of trusted partners and local tour operators in Bishkek to create an authentic and immersive experience for you in Bishkek. From exploring historical landmarks to indulging in culinary delights, we will take you on a journey that showcases the true essence of Bishkek.

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Bishkek is a treasure trove of attractions, offering something for every traveler. Explore the shop for souvenirs at the colorful bazaars, visit the religious places, or take a peaceful stroll in the serene gardens. With our expert guidance, you'll discover the best places to visit and experience the true essence of Bishkek.

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Discover the beauty and magic of Bishkek with Exploring Tourism, a trusted Bishkek travel agency, by your side. Contact us today to start planning your dream trip to this incredible city. Let us create memories that will last a lifetime as we take you on a journey through the vibrant places, ancient monuments, and captivating culture of Bishkek.

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Walking around the city of Bishkek, you’ll see an interesting blend of old Soviet-era apartment buildings and monuments, modern shopping malls, and lush green parks with wide prospects. Bishkek is the capital of Kyrgyzstan, and is a vibrant, yet not so well-known city in Central Asia. It’s a great destination for those interested in Soviet history, budget travelers, and home base for trekkers. This guide will highlight the 10 best things to do in Bishkek so you can make the most of this hidden Central Asian gem.

Thinking of heading to Central Asia? Be sure to check out my Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide to help you plan your trip!

Last updated: 11/15/22

10 Best Things to do in Bishkek

1. Walk Around Victory Park

Victory Park in Bishkek is a large, public square dedicated to the victory over Nazi Germany in WWII. The centerpiece of the park is a monument of a Kyrgyz woman waiting for her husband to return home from the war and an eternal flame in front of her. Around her are three stretches of red granite that unite above the woman in a “tunduk” with the Soviet hammer and sickle carved into the star into the center. These pieces together represent a traditional Kyrgyz yurt, or the type of homes used traditionally by the nomadic Kyrgyz people along the steppes of Central Asia.

2. See a Show at the Kyrgyz National Opera and Ballet Theater

Experience the local arts in Bishkek by visiting the Kyrgyz National Opera and Ballet Theater! After his death in 1978, the theater was named Abdylas Maldybaev, a famous Kyrgyz composer, opera signer, and actor of the USSR. The theater stages various local and international opera and ballet performances, concerts, and other musical performances.

3. Visit the National Museum of Fine Arts

Built in 1935, the National Museum of Fine Arts was funded by the Communist Party in order to promote traditional Kyrgyz art. Since then, the museum has expanded to include various applied art, paintings and sculptures from three eras: Kyrgyzstan’s nomadic history, Kyrgyzstan during the Soviet Union, and post-Soviet Kyrgyzstan.

Kyrgyzstan’s nomadic history presents much of its art through the instruments they used in and around the home such as carpets, embroideries, tools, jewelry and more. Because the Kyrgyz are traditionally nomadic, however, it was less common to lug around bigger art such as paintings or sculptures. With the Industrial Revolution and the incorporation of Kyrgyzstan into the Soviet Union, however, came a large interruption to the peoples’ nomadic way of life. Thus, Kyrgyz people began moving en mass to more permanent residences like to the cities to work in factories or onto collectivized farms. It’s during this time period you start to see less applied art and more pieces of artwork like paintings and sculptures. Moreover, the artwork of the Soviet era had to adhere to the artistic principles of Socialist Realism, which you can see in this section of the museum. The artwork and sculptures included in the section for post-Soviet Kyrgyz art very interesting combines the reflection of its nomadic roots and the response of the nation to its Soviet occupation.

4. Shop for local goods and souvenirs at Osh Bazaar

Osh Bazaar is one of the largest bazaars in Bishkek brimming with local vendors selling nearly everything under the sun – produce, bread, spices, herbs, plants, instruments, kitchenware, clothes, souvenirs – you name it. If you’re looking for a bustling bazaar where you can get the full Central Asian bazaar experience, look no further. It is known, however, to be chalk-full of pickpockets with their eyes set on tourists. I don’t know anyone who has personally gotten pickpocketed here, but the locals themselves warn of this so be sure to use best practices here. I like to flip my backpack onto my chest so that I can see it, and I always wear a money belt with my valuables inside just in case my backpack is stolen.

If you’re looking for a less hectic bazaar, I recommend Dardoi. You can find most things you need here + my friend, Lindsay, claims it has the best ashlyam-fu in Bishkek (hey, Lindsay!).

5. Walk Around Oak Park

One of my favorite aspects of Bishkek is its park culture. There are tons of parks throughout the city which provide plenty of shade in the blazing summer heat and spots for the locals to enjoy some down time. At any given time of the day, you’ll always encounter people taking in the day on one of the many benches or strolling down the sidewalk hand in hand.

Oak Park is the oldest park in Bishkek, and is noteworthy for its collection of monuments and statues placed throughout the park highlighting various historical figures and local traditions. Be sure to find the Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels Statue , Kurmanjan-Datka Monument (a 19th century Kyrgyz heroine), and the Red Guards Memorial .

6. Check out the Vladimir Lenin Statue

Although the USSR fell over thirty years ago, remnants of Kyrgyzstan’s former colonizers remain in several spots around its capital city. The most prominent of these remnants is a Vladimir Lenin statue which stands over 10 feet tall behind the city’s historical museum in the city center. The statue was erected in 1984 to commemorate sixty years under Soviet rule. Although most Lenin statues were taken down in former Soviet capitals after the fall of the Soviet Union, Bishkek’s Lenin stayed in its original place until 2003 when it was moved to its current location.

Choosing to keep Lenin’s statue up even after 1991 is likely a result of much of the public crediting Lenin with bringing about Kyrgyzstan’s statehood. And although Lenin and the Soviet Union became the cause of much suffering and oppression to come, its colonization also ended a bloody era in Kyrgyz history known as the Great Urkun. As in most post-Soviet countries, Lenin and the Soviet Union’s legacy is complicated. However, whether or not Soviet statues and other remnants of the past remain standing does give you interesting insight into how that country is grappling with that complicated past.

7. Visit the National Historical Museum of the Kyrgyz Republic on Ala-Too Square

The Historical Museum in Bishkek finally reopened in 2022 after seven years of rennovation! There is a bit of a juicy story behind this rennovation period and corruption, but the contents inside are far more interesting. The museum explores Kyrgyzstan from its earliest history to modern-day as you move from the bottom floor up. Featuring nearly 90,000 artifacts and historical items on display, the museum does a great job of guiding you through Kyrgyzstan’s ancient history, its importance along the Silk Road, becoming a part of the Russian Empire, then the Soviet Union, and, finally, its journey through statehood since independence in 1991.

My favorite part of the museum is on the third floor where they chart out the 40 tribes from which the people of Kyrgyzstan can trace back their lineage. It was fascinating that our tour guide and our teachers could point to the tribes they came from – especially being American and not knowing much about my own personal family background.

8. Walk Around the City Center

Bishkek is a great city for travelers who love to walk around when they visit a new city. The majority of tourist spots and attractions are located in the city center, and when strolling from place to place, you’re greeted with tons of fountains, wide prospects with brightly-colored flower beds, and tasty cafes and coffee shops.

Here are some of my favorite coffee shops and restaurants in the city center: Bellagio , Social Coffee , Traveler’s Coffee , Chicken Star , Ants .

9. See Bishkek’s White House

Yes, indeed, there is a government building in Bishkek called the White House! Covered in marble, the building was constructed in the Stalinist modern architectural style and was built in 1976 to be the headquarters of the Communist Party’s Central Committee. Today, the White House is the presidential office building.

Additionally, the White House bares particular historical significance as it relates to post-Soviet politics. The White House became the target of protests for the 2005 Tulip Revolution and the Kyrgyz Revolution of 2010 – both of which resulted in the ousting of the Presidents at the time.

10. Ride the Ferris Wheel at Panfilov Park

Panfilov Park is a great spot if you’re traveling with children or you yourself are still a child at heart 😉 Filled with games, mini-rides, and carnival food, Panfilov Park is a memorial park that now serves as a mini-amusement park in the city center. The best attraction here, in my opinion, is the ferris wheel that overlooks Bishkek’s city center and gives a spectacular view of its mountaneous backdrop. Oh, and yes – they have cotton candy!

How to Get Around Bishkek

Walk Along the City Center’s Many Wide Prospects

One thing about Bishkek that makes it unique is its wide sidewalks and many parks that make the city center a treat to walk around. Its thick green canopy provides some much-needed shade in the summer time.

Just a heads up for the walkers – Pedestrians don’t necessarily have the right of way in Central Asia. Always make eye contact with any approaching vehicles and don’t assume the drivers are looking for you as they turn the corners.

Take a Bus or a Trolleybus

Next up are buses and trolleybuses. Although only slightly more expensive, buses and trolleybuses do provide you with a bit more breathing space and elbow room. There are less bus and trolleybus routes in Bishkek than marshrutka routes, but they still offer transport to the majority of places around the city you’ll find yourself frequenting as a tourist. As of July 2022, bus fare is 15 som per ride . Credit cards are not accepted – cash/change only !

For bus and trolleybus routes, I recommend downloading the app 2GIS . Note* – Buses typically have three digits and trolleybuses are usually only 2 digits.

Take a Taxi

With the cost of taxi fare as low as it is, it is hard to justify taking any other mode of transport in the city. On average, the cost of a taxi from the very north of the city to the very south is about 200 som, which in 2022 is just over $2.

Although they are cheap, just note that you will rarely come across a taxi with seatbelts. Your driver might put one on as they drive past police officers, but I’d estimate that only 1/5 taxis have working seatbelts in their backseats.

While you can flag down a taxi, or any car for that matter, the most secure way to take a taxi around the city is through Yandex Taxi . You can pay by cash or, if you put in your card details before you order a cab, you can pay with foreign cards.

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Exploring the Area

Bishkek is the capital of the Kyrgyz Republic. Its political, economic and cultural center. The city located at Chuy region, at the slopes of the Kyrgyz Range, at about 700-900 meters above sea level, 25 km near to the Kazakh Border. From Bishkek to Almaty takes 250 km, 3 hours of driving. The total territory of the town is 127 km2, the territory with nearby villages and areas is about 200 km2.  The total population of the town is about 1,000,000 people.

First archeological signs dated from V-IV c. BC was found at the current territory of Bishkek town. Chui valley was an advantageous and favorable stop on the Great Silk Road. The ancient settlement of Djiul (VII-XII centuries) was located in the Northern part of the town, till our days’ people call it Kuznechnaya report – “forge fortress”, because of the densely populated area of handicrafts, artisans and merchants. In 1825 there was a settlement of Pishpek, organized by Madali Khan from Kokand Khanid. Two times Pishpek citadel attacked and destroyed by Russian troops. Later on, there was organized bazaar and settlement, In 1878 Pishpek became a town.

In 1924 here arrived Check and Slovak cooperative “Interghelpo”, they built up the town and Pishpek became the administrative center of Kyrgyz Autonomic Country. Town renamed into Frunze in 1926, named after Mikhail Vasilievich Frunze – revolutionary, soviet military and statesman, head of Red Army of the Soviets.  Frunze is the capital of the Kyrgyz Soviet Republic that started in 1936.  In 1991 after the Independence town was renamed to its historical name Bishkek.

Where to Stay

The city of Bishkek has plenty of hotels for different budgets, started from hostels for 10 USD till classic and modest 4-star level hotels. Most of the accommodation facilities are registered at Booking.com and Airbnb. Also possible to find guesthouses and homestays.

What to See and Do

The city is popular with its famous marble city center with Ala-Too Square, the White House, State Historical Museum with Manas Hero Statue nearby. State Museum of Applied Arts with Kyrgyz Traditional handicraft examples and Frunze House Museum could be interesting for most of the travelers interested in history. Osh Bazaar another place to visit and open up the eastern bazaar traditions with colorful spicy rows, fresh fruits, and vegetables at the green bazaar and huge rows of handicraft items at the branch of Kiyal building. However, every guest of the city enjoys the cozy and chill park and green areas of Panfilov Park, Oak Park, boulevard of Erkindik and Molodaya Gvardiya.

On the outskirts of Bishkek of 40 km, Ala-Archa National Park would be a great day-trip to mountain slopes of Kyrgyz Range, with mixed forests and waterfall. Different routes for different levels of difficulty could be chosen.

Another option is to do a day trip on the horseback around the Bishkek mountains.  “Day horseback tour around Bishkek”

How to Get Around

International Manas Airport situated near Bishkek. It takes main international flights from Moscow, Almaty, Tashkent, Istanbul, and Dubai. Recently announced Open-Sky Policy would give an opportunity for better connections to Bishkek.

To reach Bishkek by Highway road is possible from Kazakhstan, China, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan. Driving in Kyrgyzstan is the most popular transportation among towns and villages. Wide type of transport from shared taxies to scheduled buses possible to choose. Train connection possible from Russia via Kazakhstan and recently train connected country with Uzbekistan too.

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Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

Bishkek was founded when the Uzbek khan of Kokand built a small clay fort by a settlement on a tributary of the Chuy River in 1825, to connect up several stop-off points on the Silk Road through the Tian Shan mountains. In 1862 it was captured and trashed by Russians, before they set up their own garrison. Russian peasants were soon lured here by land grants and the fertile soil of the Chuy Valley.

The renamed town of Frunze became capital of the new Kyrgyz ASSR in 1926, but it was renamed Bishkek (the Kyrgyz form of its old Kazakh name, Pishpek) in 1991.

Climate [ edit ]

Bishkek has a temperate continental climate. The city is drab and grey in the winter, and smog is a major issue. Summer is often hot and clear, while spring and autumn are rainier. While Bishkek can be enjoyed at any time of the year with the appropriate clothing, the mountains which most tourists come for are usually only accessible between May and September.

See graph/information to the right.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Getting there & away :

• Marshrutka 380 runs downtown. The fare is 70 som (May 2024), and they sometimes charge an extra 10 som for baggage. It leaves from just outside Arrivals. Downtown the 42.87775 74.57517 2 marshrutka 380 stop is on Jash Gvardiya just north of Chuy. Service runs only daytime from about 6:40 to early evening.
• There is a new bus service run by GoBus company. Their stop is in front of Manas terminal opposite of where #380 stops. Schedule depends on the day and should correspond to flight departures. Their stops are more centrally located (Ala-Too, Philharmonic, Vefa, ...) compared to #380. Schedule from airport is frequently changed and not so reliable. Ticket is 200 som and can be booked through their app (only in Russian and Kyrgyz), there is also a chat link to book and get support in English.
• A taxi to and from the city centre should not exceed 500 som, but you'll have to negotiate from a much higher price, especially if it's very early in the morning. If you share a taxi the price should be 150 som per person.
• To & from Kazakhstan , the airport is so close to the border that you're better taking a taxi between airport and border post where you can pick up a marshrutka, e.g. on Highway A2 for Almaty, rather than going via Bishkek center.

By train [ edit ]

Domestic [ edit ].

There is a train between Bishkek and Balykchy , which lies on the western edge of Issyk Kul lake. It starts in Bishkek, from Bishkek-1 at 06:25 and Bishkek-2 at 06:40 (as of Sep 2018). The return trip starts at 17:08 in Balykchy.

The latter train also stops in Tokmok (for the Burana Tower).

International [ edit ]

From Almaty there is a train, but it is much quicker to come by road, as the railway has to swing clear of the mountains so you'd have to change and double back from Lugovaya.

From Tashkent there is a direct train Jun-Sep, which runs once a week. It leaves Thursday evening and takes 20 hr via Shymkent and Lugovaya, continuing from Bishkek-2 to Balykchy (aka Rybache) on Lake Issyk Kul . It returns west on Saturday morning. At other times of year you have to change at Taraz or Lugovaya; there may be a very long wait.

From Moscow Kazanskaya a direct train runs twice a week (late evening Th & Sa), taking just over 3 days to Bishkek-2 station via Samara, Aktobe, Kyzlorda, Shymkent, and Taraz in Kazakhstan. There are several other connections via Petropavl, Nur-Sultan or Almaty. The return direct train departs from Bishkek-2 on M & W mornings.

Get around [ edit ]

Checkout the 2GIS app and website , which is great for finding the right marshrutka or bus number in Bishkek and all over Kyrgyzstan. The service is used extensively by the locals.

Marshrutkas [ edit ]

Kyrgyzstan's capital, like many places in the former Soviet Union, has an extensive network of minibuses, known as Marshrutkas. There are hundreds of mini-buses (marshrutkas) that ply all parts of the city. They generally cost 15 som, 17 som after 21:00. They typically have around 14 seats, with standing room for around ten extra people during busy periods. Marshrutkas are easily identifiable and display their number and basic route information (in Russian) on the front. There is a great English website for checking connections. To flag one down, simply hold out your right hand, parallel to the ground. Once you get on, pay the fare to the driver. When you want to get off say "ah-stah-nah-VEE-tyeh" or simply "Stop". According to the law marshrutkas should stop at bus stops only, but this is only respected if the driver sees a police car. So, in practice you can ask the driver to stop anywhere and he will drop you off at any point on their route.

(Trolley) buses [ edit ]

Bishkek also has a bus and trolleybus system which is less extensive and generally slower. They only stop at designated bus stops and operate only till 22:00. The fare is 11 som in buses and in trolleybuses. Passengers enter at the back door and leave at the front; they pay on exit.

By taxi [ edit ]

There are several private taxi firms in Bishkek that you can easily reach through their three digit numbers including: 150, 152, 154, 156, 166, and 188. Daytime taxis throughout the city are a flat rate of 100 som and 120 som past 22:00. There are also numerous "gypsy cabs" situated at nearly every intersection. While most travellers and long-time expats report no problems, you are cautioned to be aware, especially at night and near nightclubs. Generally tourists use the local taxi services which can be reached through several numbers: 150 Euro (Evro) Taxi, 152 Super Taxi [1] , 156 Express Taxi and 188 Salam Taxi. Before 22:00 most runs in the city are 100 som and afterwards are 120 som.

Many taxis do not use a flat rate, you negotiate a price in advance. Short distance inside city can be 80 som. A taxi for a day can be negotiated. An hour drive to mountain costs about 1,100 som while getting back is usually much more expensive because the driver has to run twice without passengers since during your stay he needs to return to the city to work.

Yandex Taxi [dead link] is available, it can be ordered using smartphone app.

By bike [ edit ]

Bike shops in town also rent bikes:

• 42.87047 74.57659 1 Velo Lider , Moskovska 226 . Tu-Sa 10:00-18:00 . Knowledgeable and they speak English. ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 42.843 74.627 2 Freebike , Kropotkina 91 , [email protected] . Especially mountain bikes. ( updated Oct 2019 )

See [ edit ]

Bishkek is a pleasant city to wander with numerous leafy parks, tall trees, peppered by Soviet era statues and monuments. However there isn't a great deal to see beyond this, and the city can comfortably be 'done' in a day (or two if visiting the suburban markets). Most museums are closed on Mondays.

• Bazaars: they're more for shopping in than for sight-seeing, but see "Buy" descriptions for Osh, Dordoy, Alamedin and Ortosay Bazaars.
• 42.88139 74.61082 4 M V Frunze Museum , 364 Ul. Frunze ( NE of Parliament, look for cottage enclosed in concrete building) ). Tu-Su 09:30-17:30 . General Mikhail Frunze (1885-1925) was a World War I and civil war general born in Bishkek, of such renown that the city was named for him until independence. You start on the third floor, which depicts the Red v White communist civil war - Frunze defeated the White leaders Kolchak and Wrangel. The second floor depicts the early Soviet era in Bishkek. Finally on the ground floor you visit the thatched cottage where he spent his early years. 200 som . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 42.87923 74.61617 7 Victory Square . 24 hours . A large square with monument and eternal flame to commemorate the victory against Nazi Germany in WWII. Free . ( updated Jun 2022 )

Do [ edit ]

• 42.87219 74.61794 1 Zhirgal Banya ( Bath house ). You can buy tickets from the ticket office around the side. There's a sauna, ice-cold pool, and for an extra 200 som an attendant will lather you up, scrub you and then hose you down. For those into a little bit of self-flogging, birch branches are available free. Men and women are separate. 150-300 som .  
• Karven Club . If you want to swim, the Karven Club has an outdoor pool which is perfect for a blistering summer's day, and there's also a modern gym and fitness centre. For one hour it's 400 som but it's much better value to pay 500 som for a whole day of use and hang around for as long as you like.  

Learn [ edit ]

Bishkek is a cheap place to learn Russian (or Kyrgyz). A private 1½-hr lesson with a native Russian speaker should cost between US$5–7. Courses are also available at the American University of Central Asia and the Kyrgyz-Russian-Slavic University . There is also a private school that caters to individual learning: The London School of Languages and Cultures . This school offers Russian and Kyrgyz to anyone at anytime of the year for as little as 120 som/hr. During the warmer months they are often full so book in advance.

Work [ edit ]

A number of international organizations have offices in Bishkek, however most employees are recruited from abroad. If you speak Russian, there might be occasional opportunities to find temporary or long-term work. There are also English language schools that will employ native English speakers.

There is not a lot of foreign business investment, but there is the Kumtor Gold mine and many foreign exploration companies attempting to develop the natural resources of the country.

Buy [ edit ]

Money [ edit ].

Exchange offices can be found around the 42.87532 74.58818 1 corner of Kievskaya St. and Manas Av. , or on 42.86789 74.61123 2 Abdrakhmanov Sr. between Moskovskaya St. and Bokonbaev St. . The rates here are excellent and barely 1% off the bank rate, for US dollars and euros. But also tenge and others can be obtained for a proper rate.

Shopping [ edit ]

If you want to fit in with the locals, be sure to get one of the stylish Kyrgyz felt hats (kalpaks) worn mainly by men. You can also get textiles such as traditional patterned carpets (shyrdaks), which are well-made but can be expensive. For cheap souvenirs, avoid the Tsum department store and head directly for the Osh Bazaar. You may have to dig around the stalls as there isn't as much variety or quality as in Tsum, but the prices can be far cheaper if you put your bargaining skills to the test.

• Alamedin Bazaar is to the northeast, corner of Jibek Jolu and Kurmanjan Datka, and Ortosay Bazaar is to the southeast.
• Geoid , Kiev 107 ( entrance on the left side ). Geoid sells maps for trekking 1:200,000 and overview maps 1:1,000,000. 150-300 som .  
• 42.87618 74.61449 5 Zum Department Store . Mobile phones, clothing, wine, souvenirs, tobacco, make-up, electronics. This shopping mall is located in the centre of town off of Chui street. Complete with Mastercard and Visa ATMs, Zum also displays a great selection of food stands, just outside. Like anywhere in Bishkek, don't be afraid to haggle  

Eat [ edit ]

Bishkek is probably the best choice for food in Kyrgyzstan. From typical Kyrgyz food like Besh barmak or central Asia classics as Plov , Shashlyk or Samsas can be found around the city. Also Russian dishes are fairly ubiquitous in Bishkek because of the large number of ethnic Russians who still live in the city. There are an also growing number of restaurants and cafes catering to more varied tastes from Turkish to Korean. Also Uyghur food is popular and fit the taste of many westerners as well as locals. E.g. the chain Arzu have a few restaurants.

Splurge [ edit ]

• 42.875981 74.595641 10 Cyclone , 136 Chuy Ave . Italian fine dining ( updated Jun 2022 )

Drink [ edit ]

Cafes [ edit ].

There are a few coffee shops in Bishkek that even feature wi-fi.

• Sierra Coffee , Manas 57/1 ( 3rd floor, Russian Business Center ). Daily 07:30-23:00 . Excellent coffee and coffee specialist drinks. Breakfasts, sandwiches, wraps, soups, salads. Free Wi-Fi. Counter service by English speaking staff. A place to network and to meet other English speakers. Sierra also roasts their own coffee, offering fresh roasted coffee for sale in a variety of origins and roasts. ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 42.87561 74.62182 1 Adriano , Isanov 87 . 24 hr . All-hours coffee shop and they'll even wrap you in a blanket for cold nights on the terrace. ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 42.8723 74.5936 2 Coffee Relax , Toktogul Street 140 , ☏ +996 312 46 09 01 , [email protected] . 08:00-00:00 . Not cheap, but good food quality and service. Various coffees, and European and Turkish cuisine. ( updated Oct 2019 )

Bars [ edit ]

For young and single people, Bishkek's nightlife is impressive. Foreigners are welcomed at most venues with open arms, and many times they do not need to pay a cover charge. See the "Stay Safe" section for more on how be aware while you're having fun in Bishkek.

• 42.870506 74.60955 3 Save The Ales . M-Su 18:00-02:00 . A hip and alternative bar with a focus on ales and other non-regular beer. The people are nice and the out-door seating is comfortable. ( updated Mar 2019 )
• 12 Bar , Razzakova 32 . Daily 18:00-06:00 . Set atop one of higher buildings this makes a great place for a rooftop drink. A plush place where Bishkek's young and wealthy go to see and be seen, so you might want to gussy up a little. Drinks around US$2-4 a pop. ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 42.876539 74.585058 4 Metro Pub , Chui 168 ( corner of Turizbekova ). 24 hr . This is where the city's belle monde come for a drink and a meal. Especially crowded on St Patrick's Day and Halloween. ( updated Oct 2019 )
• Promzona , 16 Cholpon-Ata . Daily 15:00-06:00 . A trendy Russian rock establishment with a mostly Russian clientèle. It's jazz on Tuesdays with rock and blues at weekends. Check out their extensive drink menu. Entry 600 som . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• Retro Metro , Mira 24 . Daily 21:00-06:00 . You'll find the DJ spinning from inside the front section of a tube train engine (hence the name). The 80s kitsch is a popular spot for really late night partying. Cover charge 1,000 som . ( updated Oct 2019 )

Sleep [ edit ]

• 42.883 74.58 1 Homestel , Timiryazev 118 ( 700 m east of main bus station ), ☏ +996 776 987 103 . House converted into hostel, quiet and usually clean. Bathroom facilities limited for the number of guests. Secure parking, Wi-Fi, washing machine. Dorm 410 som, private 1,300 som . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 42.888 74.629 2 Nomad Home , Drevesnaya 10 ( off Osmonkul St, one block north of eastern bus station ), ☏ +996 705 976 632 , [email protected] . Two Kyrgyz women, Raisa and Gulnara, run this friendly home-stay. Dormitories, double rooms, tents and yurts are available. Can be crowded, with only one bathroom for all the guests. Has a yard where you can park your bicycle/motorcycle. Tent 150 som pp, dorm 300, double 400, yurt (sleeps 3) 500 som . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 42.829 74.609 3 South Guest House ( off Aaly Tokombaev at corner of Baitik Baatyr, 4 km south of centre ), ☏ +996 312 572623 , [email protected] . A great bargain with a nice view of the mountains. The young Kyrgyz host, Nanchan, can help with travel suggestions & sightseeing tours, before you arrive. Pick-up from airport available. ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 42.87206 74.58995 4 Interhouse City Centre , 170/13 Toktogul Street ( between Manas and Isanova ), ☏ +996 552 313 009 . Basically okay place, but some street noise. Friends Hostel used to share this building but they've gone elsewhere. Dorm 500 som . ( updated Sep 2019 )
• Apple Hostel , Chymkentskaya 1b ( next to western bus station ), ☏ +996 551 210 303 , +996 553 280 881 (WhatsApp) , [email protected] . Clean friendly place convenient for transport, 3 km from centre. Dorm US$10, private room from US$30 . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 42.84394 74.62384 5 Tunduk Hostel . Inexpensive hostel with several dorms, plenty of communal space. Dorm bed 400 som . ( updated Sep 2019 )
• 42.87642 74.6544 6 Futuro Hotel Bishkek , Khivinskaya 29 ( 4 km east of centre, one block north of Chuy Bvd ), ☏ +996 312 98 68 68 , [email protected] . Some way from centre (take bus along Chuy) but gets great reviews for comfort, service & facilities. B&B double US$60 . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 42.864408 74.620085 7 Asia Mountains , 1a Tugolbai-Ata Str ( Corner with Shooruchova, 500 m south of railway station ), ☏ +996 312 986 148 . Reasonable hotel with some mountain views. A bit hidden away and a walk to the main streets but close to Steinbrau pub. B&B double US$44 .  
• 42.85985 74.60018 8 Alpinist , Panfilov 113 ( 3 km south of centre ), ☏ +996 312 595647 , [email protected] . God value place with single, double, and triple rooms available with satellite TV and internet ports, a full service cafe, and conference room. B&B double US$40 . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 42.881 74.594 9 Shah Palace Hotel , 110 Koenkozova Street ( corner of Abdumomunov St ), ☏ +996 709 986 822 . Clean hotel with multilingual staff. B&B double US$50 . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 42.8827 74.6506 10 Crocus Guest House , Komsomolskaya 5 ( 3 km east of centre ), ☏ +996 558 058026 , +996 558 268505 , [email protected] . Guest house in quiet residential area, finding it can be tricky. Has 6 double rooms with shower, satellite TV, fridge, Wifi, garden, sauna and pool. B&B double US$30 . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 42.881 74.618 11 Dostuk Hotel Bishkek , Frunze 425-B , ☏ +996 312 433 636 , [email protected] . Soviet-style monolith business hotel with conference facilities, friendly & efficient. Separate hotels from time to time operate within this building. B&B double US$60 . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 42.838 74.584 12 Hotel Ak Keme , 93 Mir Ave ( 3 km south of centre ), ☏ +996 312 540143 , [email protected] . Mid-range hotel, tired decor. With conference center, fitness club, indoor and outdoor pools with bar access, and spa. B&B double US$80 . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• Smart Hotel , Abdrahmanova 204 ( facing Hyatt Regency ), ☏ +996 312 97 61 61 , [email protected] . Popular central hotel, clean & efficient. B&B double US$100 . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 42.88 74.613 13 Hyatt Regency Bishkek , 191 Abdrahmanov St (formerly Sovietskaya) , ☏ +996 312 66 1234 , [email protected] . Large 5-star hotel in business district. Showing its age but gets mostly good reviews for comfort, location, service and food. B&B double US$180 . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 42.819 74.619 14 Jannat Regency Hotel , 21/2 Aaly Tokombayev St ( 5 km south of Ala Too ), ☏ +996 312 909 750 , [email protected] . New hotel on south edge of city. Rooms not as posh as pictures suggest, but most reviewers find it clean and comfy. B&B double US$150 . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 42.881 74.604 15 Park Hotel Bishkek , Orozbekova 87 , ☏ +996 312 665518 , fax : +996 312 622497 , [email protected] . Comfy modern hotel in the business district near Ala Too Square. B&B double US$130 . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 42.872175 74.616442 16 Hotel Evropa , 70 Ibraimova str. /Toktogula , ☏ +996 556 431 994 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . US$80 . ( updated Jun 2022 )

Stay safe [ edit ]

Bishkek is safe compared to many major Asian cities.

Traffic [ edit ]

The most dangerous places are the streets during rush hours when you try to cross them. At night take the usual precautions. However even the parks are quite safe. If you go out and plan to drink you should always take a taxi for about 120 som because a drunken person stumbling around is everywhere in the world an easy victim.

Pick-pocketing [ edit ]

Pickpockets are a major problem in and around markets, especially at Osh Bazaar. Look out for young men with large plastic bags "bumping" into you. Keep your valuables at your accommodation if you plan to visit the markets, and if you bring a purse, camera, backpack etc. keep it in front of you.

Nightclubs [ edit ]

Nightclubs and their surrounding areas can be a hotbed for crime in the form of theft, prostitution, or even assault by people waiting to take advantage of an unsuspecting traveler or expat. Ask locals or hotel staff which areas are safer than other and take precautions if you plan on club hopping. Do not walk from nightclub to nightclub at night; instead spend 120-150 som on a taxi. Potential muggers have been known to wait outside bars and clubs, especially the ones frequented by ex-pats, follow drunk ex-pats and then rob them.

Keep a cool head and be aware of your surroundings when hanging out inside and outside of nightclubs. Most clubs have numerous buff, semi-professional security guards, but you should be vigilant nonetheless. Do not leave any belongings on the table while you go to dance. Be careful around the taxi area outside the club; occasionally, unsavory characters pick this location to mug drunk foreigners as they leave the club late at night. You might not get much help from club security when it comes to theft.

Bishkek has a lot of prostitutes and sexual-transmitted diseases are on the rise in Kyrgyzstan and Central Asia. Always take proper precautions if you plan on being sexually active.

Police [ edit ]

If you are a victim of a crime, you are probably best served by reporting the incident to your embassy, rather than to the militsya (police). Sometimes militsya will approach foreigners and ask them for documents, such as your passport. It's best to keep a photocopy of your passport and leave the original at your hotel if you can. On the rare occasion that they make problems, be polite, but firm, in your refusal and insist that you be put in touch with your embassy first.

In the past it occurred that (fake) policeman approach you on the street, especially if you look like a tourist, such as carrying a big backpack, and ask to check the belongings. Often, their aim is to steal your valuables and money. They can do it very professionally, and you only will notice later, that something disappeared. The best way, is to pretend you don't understand them, trying to call your embassy, or just walk away asap. Also keep your valuables in a safe place and don't expose them to others the entire time you are in Kyrgyzstan. Even sometimes normal local people, who invite you to have a tea at their home, if they see that you left some valuables unattended, may be tempted to steal.

Infrastructure [ edit ]

Irrigation ditches and other holes in the ground can seriously injure the unaware person - especially when walking at night. Many streets are poorly lit or not lit at all, and it is easy to fall into them. Avoid manhole covers, grates and similar fixtures - they are frequently loose and even missing.

Cope [ edit ]

Bishkek is more or less a museum relic of the former Soviet Bloc. Despite Kyrgyzstan's poverty and the decay of its infrastructure, Bishkek remains a relatively safe, clean, functional city. Bishkek is not an old city and possesses no ancient landmarks, but it nonetheless has its own kind of charm, which often arouses nostalgia in people who knew the old Soviet Union. For some visitors, Bishkek is merely a stop on the Silk Road to refresh supplies before returning to the mountains. However, expatriates generally consider themselves lucky to benefit from its easygoing lifestyle, open-minded spirit, party culture and low cost of living. If you come with the right expectations you might find yourself pleasantly surprised.

Embassies and consulates [ edit ]

• Kyrgyz Concept , Chui 126 .  
• Mrs Liu , Chui 142 . The price including consular fees is US$120–150 .  
• GS-tour company , Shopokava 29, 3 , ☏ +996555 51 52 52 (English), +996773 75 10 00 (Russian) . The price is US$80 and higher .  

Connect [ edit ]

Free Wi-Fi is widespread. Most "foreinercafes" have free Wi-Fi (Coffee, Foyer, Obama, Cyclone, Pirogoff-Vodkin, Vostok Zapad, Tubeteika, Movie City Bar, Buddha Bar, etc.) There is also free Wi-Fi at the Vefa shopping centre on the corner of Gorkiy and Soviet.

Getting mobile phone service or even internet service is rather straight forward and a good idea, even if you're here for only a few days. You get SIM cards in almost every hotel or from several providers at the exit of the airport: Megafone, O, Beeline, etc. A SIM with 1 month of unlimited data and free calls is around 800 som, and will be activated right there for you. Otherwise, to activate them, put them into your phone and then go to one of the payment machines in supermarkets, petrol stations, etc. On the screen of the machines, select the provider of your SIM, enter the phone number on the SIM and finally put in some money. For all providers you get at least 2GB data volume and many free SMS for only 100 som. You first have to select your tariff (by calling something like "*624*1#") after your payment to benefit from the low prices. This is self-explanatory if you look at the advertisements of the providers.

Go next [ edit ]

• Ala-Archa National Park – A great hiking and mountain climbing opportunity right next to Bishkek.
• Alamedin Gorge – A beautiful river valley with high routes to Ala-Archa (glacier trail) and Issyk Ata .

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The 23 Best Things to do in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 6, 2024

If you’re planning a trip to Kyrgyzstan and wondering what things to do in Bishkek then we’ve got you covered!

Any visit to Kyrgyzstan will bring you to Bishkek. Nestled in the north of the country, close to the Kazakh border, Bishkek is the furthest capital city from an ocean.

As you land at Manas Airport you may be lucky enough to spot snow-capped peaks on the outskirts of the nation’s capital. Such views and the epic hiking trails that accompany them are what draw many to this landlocked nation.

Some of these lie just a stone’s throw from the nation’s capital. Meaning that if your time here is short you will still be able to get your hiking boots muddy. 

Bishkek is a great place to plan out your trip. Certain hiking trails may be inaccessible due to weather conditions. Bishkek’s CBT and the Trekking Union of Kyrgyzstan will be able to help in this area. 

The heart of Bishkek is not particularly big, therefore you will spend most of your time on foot. Public transport is limited, but picking up a taxi is pretty easy. For longer trips, it may be worth booking through your accommodation or negotiating at the bus station.

READ MORE: Be sure to check out our guide for travelling in Kyrgyzstan to help you plan your entire visit there!

Table of Contents

1) People watch at Ala-Too Square

2) wash the world away at the zhirgal banya, 3) check out the city’s parks, 4) catch a ballet or opera, 5) take a wander around the deserted circus, 6) find lenin’s statue, 7) check out bishkek’s museums , 8) relax in a cafe, 9) spot some soviet architecture in bishkek’s centre , 10) visit a museum dedicated to a famous revolutionary., 11) admire some russian and kyrgyz artwork at the museum of fine arts., 12) take the opportunity to enjoy some culinary variety, 13) test your bargaining skills at osh bazaar , 14) pay your respects at victory square, 15) visit the holy resurrection cathedral, 16) get the lowdown of bishkeks craft beer scene, 17) hike in the ala-archa canyon , 18) take a weekend hike with one of the city’s hiking ccubs, 19) get off the beaten track in the alamedin and sokuluk valleys , 20) take a day trip to the burana tower, 21) hike in the konorchek canyon, 22) visit the issyk ata valley hot springs, 23) go skiing in chunkurchak, the best things to do in bishkek.

For many travellers, Bishkek is not what draws travellers to Kyrgyzstan. That being said there is certainly enough to do in and around Bishkek to keep you occupied for a couple of days at least. 

Let’s check out some of the best things to do in Bishkek.

The main square in the centre of Bishkek. Home to protests in times gone by, this is the nominal centre of Bishkek. A statue of Manas, the hero of the epic 500,000 line poem of the same name , stands triumphantly in the centre. 

This poem holds a special place amongst Kyrgyzstan’s population, and as result you will hear quite a bit amount Manas during your time in Kyrgyzstan. 

Next to the statue of Manas is a gigantic flag pole which is raised on a regular basis throughout the day. Behind both is an excellent piece of brutalist architecture, the State History Museum.

In the evening the square fills with skaters, couples and families enough an evening under the squares lights. 

One of the great bathing traditions alongside Japanese onsen’s and Turkish hammams, the banya is an institution in Russia and most of the former Soviet Union.

Unlike an onsen which is based primarily on the bathing itself, banya’s are based primarily around a sauna followed by cold water in the form of a dip of a dunk.

A great way to warm up in the cold Russian winter, a banya can also provide some welcome relief to your aching muscles.

Of all of the top Bishkek attractions, this is definitely one of the most relaxing.

• Address: Toktogul 53, cnr Sultan Ibraimov (Pravda)
• Price: Includes a locker & towel – Adult/Child – 300/150som

Bishkek has quite a few lovely parks that are perfect places to spend a slow lazy afternoon in the summer sun.

Dubovy Park, just northeast of Ala-Too Square is home to a few interesting statues and is well worth a stroll. 

To the north west of Ala Too Square you will find Panfilov Park, which is s slightly prettier affair. At night this park fills with activities, games and even some fair ground rides. 

Taking a stroll through one of city’s parks is one of the best things to do in Bishkek.

The Soviet Union has left many opulent theatres dotted across Central Asia (the Navoi Theatre in Tashkent springs to mind ).

In Bishkek, this Opera and Ballet Theatre, located a stone’s throw from Ala-Too Square, has all the trappings of Soviet overstatement, both inside and out.

With regular performances, there is a good chance something will be on when you’re in town.

Tickets can be purchased directly from the theatre’s ticket office. Full listings can be found here . If you’re running out of things to do in Bishkek, or just fancy doing something a bit different, this is a great option.

To the city’s north is the deserted old circus building. One of the odder Bishkek attractions, this was a popular haunt during the Soviet Union days. Now it’s a quirky shadow of it’s former glory.

Now it sits as a true testament to the Soviet Union’s architectural desires. 

At sunset, it is possible to get some pretty cool photos. It’s certainly an interesting Bishkek activity.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, many Lenin statues were defaced or torn down. Unlike its European counterparts, Central Asia wasn’t really yearning for independence as they were very reliant on the Soviet Union. 

Therefore when independence came to Kyrgyzstan in 1991 Lenin was relocated and replaced by Manas on Ala Too Square. 

He now faces some government offices with his back to Manas. A symbolic gesture perhaps? 

Incidentally, many towns and cities in Kyrgyzstan have statues of Lenin, in direct contrast to the rest of the Soviet Union. A slightly odd piece of Bishkek sightseeing!

Bishkek does have some pretty cool museums that are worth checking out.

The state history museum is worth visiting, although it has been closed on-and-off in recent years, unfortunately. It can be found just behind Ala Too Square. 

After spending the majority of your time hiking and trekking, by foot or by horse, Bishkek is a great place to relax and do absolutely nothing.

Whiling away an afternoon in a park or cafe is a quintessential Bishkek activity. However, Bishkek’s growing cafe culture means there are plenty of excellent spots for getting your caffeine fix as the world passes by.

We have a guide on chilling out in Bishkek for you to check out, which has some of Jarryd and Alesha’s favourite cafes!

In short, don’t miss out on these at least:

• Chicken Star (our favourite!)
• Sierra Coffee
• Social Coffee
• Prosto Coffee
• Cafe de Paris
• Vanilla Sky

Bishkek’s main street, Chuy Avenue is home to some decent eateries a fair few shops, however, there is also a fair bit of Soviet Architecture on display.

This will make you fawn or weep depending on your persuasion. However, there certainly is a tip of the hat to the former overlords in Moscow. 

Incidentally, the city’s north is home to the rather spectacular Holy Resurrection Cathedral which is well worth a visit. Certainly a bit more pleasing to the eyes than some classic Soviet architecture.

If you’re more interested in Kyrgyzstan’s more recent history then head over to the Mikhail Frunze Museum.

Focusing on the Russian revolution it tells the story of Mikhail Frunze who was born in Bishkek and was one of the leaders of the revolution that toppled the Romanov family that had ruled Russia and its empire for over 300 years.

There are some sources that suggest he may have even been a minor candidate to replace Lenin. 

Although English is limited it provides an interesting insight into one of the defining moments of the 20th century. 

Located in the heart of Bishkek, this museum holds the work of artists from both Kyrgyzstan and Russia.

The museum opened in 1935 with the collection being built up from 1934. Naturally, you can expect to see some evocative works depicting Krygyzstan’s stunning landscape alongside work with a strong Soviet favour.

The most prominent artist is Gapar Aitiev. Revered in his homeland, he is also the first professional artist in Kyrgyzstan according to some sources.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our full guide on the top places to visit in Kyrgyzstan !

Many visitors to Kyrgyzstan visit as part of a longer trip to Central Asia. You will eat a lot of shashlik, manti, lagman and plov during your time in Central Asia.

Whilst the food is good you will want to take advantage of the variety where possible. 

Kyrgyzstan does have a pretty wide variety of culinary options, including a number of western restaurants and a decent Chinese hot pot restaurant out by the circus.

You’ll also find a great Georgian cafe called Pur-Pur, and quite a few nice Indian restaurants.

If you are spending quite a bit of time in Central Asia then you definitely need to take advantage!

To the west of Bishkek’s centre is the Osh Bazaar. This sprawling maze of stalls and storefronts is a great place to hunt down some fresh fruit, souvenirs and anything else in between.

This is a great place to practice your bargaining skills and in some cases in can be a goo dplace to find a driver. 

Do be aware that pickpockets are known to operate out of this bazaar so make sure to keep your wits about you. 

READ MORE: Wondering what else you can do in Kyrgyzstan? Our expert blog post will help with that !

Built in 1985 to commemorate 40 years since the end of World War II (The Great Patriotic War in the Former Soviet Union), it is made up of three red granite pillars built to represent a yurt.

At the centre of the monument stands a woman waiting for her husband to return home. Above her is funeral wreath supported by the granite pillars.

The eternal flame receives a changing of the guard ceremony every hour.

Also known as the Russian Orthodox Church, this is the home of Bishskek’s Russian Orthodox community.

Located north of Panfilov Park, its blue roof and gold domes stand out against much of Bishkek’s Soviet backdrop.

Like coffee and cafes, craft beer is growing in popularity in Bishkek. Brewster in the heart of the city is one of the most popular and well-known, alongside the original Kyrgyz micro-brewery, Save the Ales .

Bishkek Day Trips

One of the best things about Bishkek is the cities close proximity to fantastic hiking.

The stunning mountain vistas and spectacular alpine history is the main draw for visitors and so much is accessible as a day trip from the capital. Of all the things to do in Bishkek, taking on one of the many awesome hiking trails on the cities outskirts is a real highlight.

The main reason people come to Kyrgyzstan is to trek into the wilderness and enjoy the stunning scenery Kyrgyzstan is blessed with.

Bishkek is a short journey to the Ala Archa gorge which we have touched on in a couple of other articles on places to visit and things to do in Kyrgyzstan.

The hiking and scenery here is stunning, especially when you consider it’s close proximity. 

There are numerous day hikes available. However, it is possible to spend the night if you wish.

Make sure you go all the way to the Aplager where the trails start, not the park’s entrance. 

This is one of the best things to do in Bishkek, so grab your boots and head for the mountains.

Bishkek has a number of weekend hiking groups that go out to some of the more off the beaten track hiking destinations that surround Bishkek. The Trekking Union of Kyrgyzstan is a solid bet.

Incidentally, they do multi-day hikes elsewhere in the country if you’re interested. The Mount Club based in Bishkek is also a solid bet.

I took a trip with the Trekking Union of Kyrgyzstan and we took in a day hike a the rather lovely Shamshi Groge.

Sadly the final section of the trail was considered unsafe by the guide due to heavy rainfall that day. However, we were still able to get into the wilderness 1.5 hours from Bishkek.

Ala-Archa is the most well-known hiking destination around Bishkek. However, there are two other spectacular destinations that are well worth checking out; the Alamedin and Sokuluk Valleys. 

The Alamedin is more about the views than the journey. This is the ideal place to enjoy a picnic with a picture-perfect backdrop. The views start to appear roughly 1 kilometre after the trailhead. 

The Sokuluk Valley is home to some great trekking and rather spectacular waterfalls. The trekking union of Kyrgyzstan runs one day tours here. 

One of Kyrgyzstan’s most important historical sites lies to the east of Bishkek. With a largely nomadic history, Kyrgyzstan does not have the same archaeological sites as it’s neighbours. This is what makes the Burana Tower so significant. 

With spectacular scenery surrounding it, this is a pretty inspiring destination. 

READ MORE: Check out our post on visiting the Burana Tower.

This may be a stretch at 86 miles from Bishkek, but the Konorchek Canyon is another excellent hiking around the capital.

Some use this a stop on the long journey to Issyk Kul. Transport here relies on private hire, and we would recommend booking onward or return travel, as your chances to flag down marshrutka and taxis are slim.

The red rocks of the canyon are reminiscent of the Skazka Canyon, just south of Issyk Kul.

Only 2 hours drive from Bishkek is another excellent hiking destination. The main target for day hikers are the waterfalls an hour beyond the sanatorium at the entrance.

The trail goes will beyond here with places to camp for those with their own equipment.

Back in the Soviet days, this was a popular getaway for those wanting to relax in the hot springs. After hiking to the waterfalls, soaking in the hot springs is the perfect way to end the day.

Kyrgyzstan is not the first name on the lips winter sport enthusiasts, however there are some decent ski resorts in the country .

One of the best being Chunkurchak, located less than 50 kilometres from Bishkek. With 10km of runs and 5 lifts, there’s plenty here for the majority of skiers.

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Richard Barnes

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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The 23 Best Things to Do in Kyrgyzstan

14 AWESOME Things to Do in Issyk Kul, Kyrgyzstan [2024]

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Great read. I just arrived in Bishkek and unfortunately greeted by a taxi scammer…what a day to start. I’ll try to check out all your list above.

Muslim countries are always blessed to visit either it is UAE, Dubai, Pakistan or this one. thanks for this informative writing.

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• This Bishkek Travel Guide Will Help You Explore The Mesmerizing City In Its True Glory

23 Mar 2023

Bishkek is a scenic place surrounded by mountains, gardens, and lakes. This historical city is the capital of Kyrgyzstan which houses grand monuments and several museums. The place welcomes a large number of tourists every year, who are amazed by its scenic nature and inimitable architect. The place is perfect for family vacations and adrenaline junkie will be impressed by the winter sports that they can easily participate in. One can also go for hiking, horseback riding, and biking at this stunning place. There are many commendable things to do here and this Bishkek travel guide will help you to smoothly navigate through the city while experiencing its fantastic culture and Art.

Best Time To Visit Bishkek

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Bishkek is the place that promises a fine travel experience at any time of the year. But if one is looking for trekking than April to September is the best time to visit this place. Also, one will get to experience a pleasant temperature during Spring and Autumn when the temperature is neither too high or low.

Ideal Trip Duration

To get a comfortable holiday experience, the schedule should not be very hectic as one gets tired after a trekking session. Give this place at least 3 to 4 days so that enough time is provided to the body for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Places To Visit In Bishkek

1. osh bazar: most vibrant market in asia.

The Osh bazaar is the place which can be found in every Travellers’ Guide To Bishkek as one can taste the local snacks and explore the colorful local attire here. The bustling market is widely spread and appropriately reflect the local culture. It is one of the biggest markets in central Asia where one can spend several hours admiring the diversity of this place.

Must Read: 9 Things To Do In Bishkek That Will Make You Fall In Love With The City

2. Ala Archa National Park: Get Close To Nature

Located in the beautiful mountains, the Ala Archa National Park is 40 km away from the city. This picturesque place is serene and travelers often come here for hiking. It has several glaciers, snow-clad mountain peaks, and splendid flora. The visit to this national park could create memories for a lifetime and is definitely included in every Kyrgyzstan Bishkek travel guide.

Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In Bishkek: A Detailed Guide For Your Next Trip!

3. Ala-Too Square: Perfect For Leisure

It is a major landmark in the city where one can spend leisure time sitting on the benches and enjoying the splendid water fountains. There is Manas Statue at the square which looks magnificent and commemorates the 20th anniversary of Kyrgyzstan’s independence.

Suggested Read: 6 Places To Visit In Asia In November: An Escape From The Snow Into The Tropics

Things To Do In Bishkek

Hiking can be done every weekend with the group of hikers at many beautiful trails which are at some distance from the city. One can witness the mesmerizing mountains and lush green nature during hiking. Hikers should pack enough snacks and water to comfortably complete the trek. It is an essential part of Bishkek tourist guide as the holidays at this place are incomplete sans hiking.

Suggested Read: Here’s Why The Cleanest Village In Asia, Mawlynnong Deserves More Tourists

2. Bishkek Cafes

Bishkek has extensive cafes which offer fine food and snacks. These trendy cafes are clean, embellished with traditional decors and serves inexpensive drinks. These cafes are known to provide delicious food, drinks, and fresh atmosphere.

Suggested Read: 36 Best Places To Visit In Southeast Asia That Won’t Let You Put Your Camera Down!

3. Monuments

There are many intriguing monuments that can be seen in the city that displays remarkable architecture and speaks about the rich history of the place. There are many monuments that could be included in Bishkek travel guide. Among them the Victory monument is one of the most popular.

Suggested Read: 3 Places To Visit Near Asian Civilisations Museum That Are Perfect For The Explorers!

Getting Around

Getting around is not much difficult in Bishkek but it is advisable to do a little research ahead of time. Public transportation mainly includes bus services and cabs. Often, the destinations have slightly similar names so it will be beneficial to know the full and correct name of the place that one wants to visit.

Tips For Visiting Bishkek

1. English is not spoken or understood by most people, therefore, it is best to have a translator along. 2. Always carry the local currency as many places don’t accept any cards or other modes of payments. 3. The weather is very unpredictable. It can be hot and cold on the same day. So pack accordingly. 4. It is courteous to remove shoes when entering any house or guesthouse.

Further Read: 10 Cheapest Cities In Asia For The Shoestring Budget Travelers

Go hiking, horse riding, and trekking at the beautiful mountains of the place that attracts travelers from all over the world. Explore the remarkable monuments and visit the best places in the city with the help of this comprehensive Bishkek travel guide. Take part in winter sports or shop at exceptional markets when you book Kyrgyzstan tour with TravelTriangle!

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10 Things to do in Bishkek

Updated April 2024,  10 Things to do in Bishkek was originally written in November 2019

I quite like Bishkek. Along with  Dushanbe  and  Khorog , it feels like a home away from home after all the time I’ve spent in  Central Asia  on my numerous trips here. But I often hear travelers complain that it’s boring and there’s not much to do— which is a big part of why I love it. There’s no pressure to see an endless list of sites, it’s a place where I feel I can really relax (as you can see by my extremely limited collections of photographs in Bishkek based on this post).

So if you find yourself headed to Bishkek here are things to do in Bishkek and additionally day trips to take from the city. If you’re starting to plan your adventure in Kyrgyzstan, I recommend the Bradt Kyrgyzstan guidebook to help you sort out your own trip.

Start here:  The Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide

Need Travel Insurance and Evacuation Services for Kyrgyzstan?

Start shopping for travel insurance plans over at  IATI Insurance . Readers of the Adventures of Nicole get a 5% discount off your plan.

The Adventures of Nicole partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading medical evacuation and security advisory services. To travel with peace of mind, shop evacuation coverage at Global Rescue .

Where To Stay In Bishkek

I’ve been to Bishkek several times over the last few years. Here are my personal favorite hostels and hotels from my many stays:

Budget Apple Hostel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Midrange Viva Hotel |  Hotels.com  |

Splurge Hotel Asia Mountains 1 |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Splurge Salut Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

One of the largest bazaars in Central Asia, Osh Bazaar is massive and sprawling. I easily get lost each time I visit. If you’re looking to pick up souvenirs, supplies for literally anything, clothing, inexpensive produce and meat, or even quick and cheap Central Asian dishes and snacks this is your place. Or if you just wanna experience the chaos and fast-paced bustle (great for photography).

Local friends have always warned me of police (fake and real) extorting money from tourists here demanding to see passports and permits for photography, though I’ve never had an issue with this- it’s something to be aware of.

Ala-Too Square

With extensive fountains and beautiful flower displays, a big statue of Manas and flanked by brutalist architecture, this is the center of Bishkek. Ala-Too Square was built in 1984 to celebrate 60 years of the Kyrgyz SSR. There aren’t heaps to do here per se, but it’s a good place to sit down for a minute and relax. Many of the big sites in Bishkek are close by to Ala-Too Square.

State Museum of Fine Arts

This museum houses collections of Kyrgyz fine arts and traditional crafts, including felt works, carpets, and more. There are also touring local and international rotating exhibits brought into the museum as well.

Admission : 100 KGS.

Frunze House Museum

From 1926-1992 Bishkek was renamed Frunze, after Mikhail Vasilievich Frunze- the Bolshevik leader that was born in Bishkek. The museum is built around the house he was born in and displays many photos of the city of Bishkek and images from the Bolshevik Revolution. Note that there are no English language information labels on the photos or artifacts.

State Historical Museum (if it ever re-opens)

Just across Chuy Avenue from Ala-Too Square is the State Historical Museum that holds artifacts from Kyrgyzstan’s Soviet-era times all the way up to the 2010 revolution. The State Historical Museum has been closed for construction for many years now and it doesn’t seem known when it’ll ever re-open.

Planning to visit Kyrgyzstan’s second city? Check out my  Osh Travel Guide

Erkindik Park

Between the lanes of Erkindik Boulevard is this green, leafy oasis. There’s plenty of benches to take a rest on in the shade and a plethora of statues to wander between too.

Catch A Show At The State Opera & Ballet Theatre

Wanna catch a ballet or play on the cheap? This is your place to go. This is a great activity for those headed to Bishkek in the winter months and are looking for indoor activities.

Victory Square

A yurt-like structure with an eternal flame burning beneath dominates Victory Square. It’s a WWII monument commemorating the 40th anniversary of the end of the war.

Lenin Statue

If you haven’t spent much time in any post-Soviet republics these statues of Lenin are probably still a novelty. Either way their usually worth a quick photo op, though many throughout Central Asia have been toppled over, or in this Lenin’s case— moved to a less prominent location. This Lenin statue can be found behind the State Historical Museum that I’m beginning to doubt will ever reopen—but I’m will to take bets… 2030 anyone?

Craft Beer & Brewery Scene

The Bishkek beer scene is growing quickly. I feel like gotten to watch Bishkek grow up over the last few years with the new types of businesses that have been popping up. Make sure to try out the all-female ran Save the Ales and Brewster.

Gorge On Local & International Cuisine

If you’ve been in Central Asia for a while now you’re probably DYING to grab something not fried in mutton fat and you just can’t fathom getting through another plate of steaming plov. I understand the plight.

There are a wide variety of international restaurants to get a fix of something… anything else in. Some favorites include Chicken Star (Korean), Pur Pur (Georgian), Vinoteka (European), and Dolce Vita (pizza).

Oh, so you’re new here? You’re starting your Central Asia endeavors from Bishkek. You’re likely not ploved out just yet. Good local haunts offering up traditional Central Asian and Kyrgyz dishes to try are Navat, Taxim Cafe, and Frunze Restaurant.

Dordoi Bazaar

Sitting in the northeast of Bishkek, Dordoi Bazaar is a massive market that is actually comprised of nine different markets— but you’d never pick up on that. One of the highlights? The ashlan fu stalls selling Dungan spicy cold noodle soup that the eastern city of Karakol is famed for.

Bishkek Day Trips

Burana tower.

Burana Tower is all that remains from the city of Balasagan, the capital of the Karkhanid Khanate the ruled the area from the 9th-11th centuries.

Burana Tower is the main attraction, but there is also a nearby museum. Visiting on a Sunday is a great option for those that want to combine Burana Tower on a day trip with the Tokmok Sunday Animal Market. Admission is 150 KGS per person.

Read more about this day trip in my post How to get to  Burana Tower & Tokmok Animal Market .

Tokmok Animal Market

As mentioned in the previous section, the Tokmok Animal Market that only happens on Sundays makes a great day trip from Bishkek with Burana Tower. Traders from all over Chuy Valley and beyond to buy, sell and trade sheep, goats, camels, horses, and more. Read up more in How to get to  Burana Tower & Tokmok Animal Market .

Alamedin Valley

Alamedin Valley is a great place to head to get out of the city and spend a day walking in nature or set up for a nice picnic. To get to Alamedin Valley, grab a marshrutka from Alamedin Bazaar in Bishkek to Koi Tash or grab a taxi from the city. There’s also a fancy spa you can opt to spend an hour or two at in the valley at  Jannat Resort , and have a nice lunch at Twelve Chimneys if you’re not feeling outdoorsy.

Ata Beyit Memorial

Ata Beyit means ‘the grave of our fathers’ in Kyrgyz. Ata Beyit is a monument dedicated to the 137 people who were murdered and bodies buried here in a mass grave during the Stalinist Purge of 1938. One man saw the mass burial as it happened but kept the secret for years, only telling his daughter. She eventually shared her father’s story in 1991 after the independence of Kyrgyzstan when she knew it would be safe to share her father’s first-hand witness of the atrocity. Ata Beyit is located 25 kilometers south of Bishkek.

Konorchek Canyon

At 140 kilometers east of the big city, Konorcheck Canyon can make a nice day trip from Bishkek, or a nice stop to break up the journey between the capital and Issykul Lake.

Want to take a two-stan trip? Check out my two week Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan itinerary

Issyk Ata Valley Hot Spring

An easy visit from Bishkek that will take you to a waterfall and an old Soviet sanatorium where you can enjoy a dip in a hot spring.

Ala Archa Canyon offers anything from day walks to overnight treks to waterfalls, glaciers and mountain peaks. Hop on marshrutka #265 from Osh Bazaar or arrange a taxi to take you.

Park entrance : 100 KGS.

Hike In The Summer Or Ski In The Winter At Chunkurchak

For beginner skiers, Chunkurchak is a good place to head to get in some turns not far from Bishkek. In summer it provides a nice base for exploring.

Sokuluk Waterfall

Sokuluk Waterfall is a short trek 70 or so kilometers from Bishkek. I haven’t been here personally, but friends have recommended it in the past. It’s easiest to reach by hiring a taxi from Bishkek or if you have your own car.

Kol Tor Lake (Kegeti)

Hop on marshrutka 303 from the eastern bus station in Bishkek to the village of Kegeti to access the trail from Kol Tor Lake (there are several other Kol Tor Lakes in Kyrgyzstan, FYI). Start early because this is a long 5-8 hour day of trekking for most people. It’s possible to spend the night in Kegeti at Kegeti Tour Guesthouse.

More Posts from Kyrgyzstan:

A Simple Guide To Central Asia Visas

The Best Road Trips In The World

34 Photos That Will Make You Book A Ticket To Kyrgyzstan

7 Tips For Solo Female Travel In Central Asia

Why Foodies Should Flock To Karakol, Best Karakol Restaurants & Food

Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide

A 10 Day Pamir Highway Itinerary including the Wakhan Valley

The Karkara Border Crossing Between Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan

10 Things To Do In Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

A Beginner’s Guide To Central Asia Travel: Discover The Silk Road

A Two Week Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan Itinerary

Crossing Kyzyl Art Pass Between Tajikistan & Kyrgyzstan

5 Things To Do In Osh, Kyrgyzstan + Travel Guide

How To Get To Burana Tower & The Tokmok Animal Market

A Quick Guide To Jeti Oguz, Kyrgyzstan

How To Visit Sary Chelek, Kyrgyzstan

Karakol Travel Guide + 13 Things To Do In Karakol, Kyrgyzstan

Marco Poloing Around: The Long Way to Italy, Via Afghanistan

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13 Top Things to do in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan in 2024- The Complete Bishkek City Guide

Is Bishkek worth visiting? What are the top things to do in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan’s capital city? In this in-depth Bishkek city guide, you’ll find an overview of the most interesting places to visit in Bishkek, recommendations about where to stay and where to eat in Bishkek, and information about how to get around the city.

Bishkek is probably the place where you’ll start your journey in Kyrgyzstan . It’s a modern and cosmopolitan city but still preserves the essence of the Kyrgyz culture and Soviet architecture.

Although Bishkek is the capital of the country, it still feels somehow like a provincial town and it’s really easy to get from one end of the city to the other.

I lived for a whole year in Bishkek, not too far from the Ala-Too square. It was the perfect base to discover the country and visit more beautiful and interesting places in Kyrgyzstan. It was the ideal place from which to explore the country and living there really gave me amazing insights into the Kyrgyz culture.

The 25 most beautiful places to visit in Kyrgyzstan

While Bishkek is really interesting, I wouldn’t recommend staying there longer than a day if you’re in Kyrgyzstan just for a short time.

There are many beautiful day trips and short hikes that can be done near the city and there are so many other beautiful destinations around the country to visit that I wouldn’t stay in Bishkek for too long.

Tip: See my  Kyrgyzstan Travel Page  for a complete overview of all my travel guides and blog posts about Kyrgyzstan!

T h e 2 8 Top Things to do in Kyrgyzstan

Would you love to go on an epic adventure on foot, on horseback or by 4×4 to the most beautiful places in Kyrgyzstan with a small group of adventurous travelers?

Check out my 6 Fantastic Kyrgyzstan Adventure Tours!

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Plan your trip to Bishkek

Where to stay.

• Best budget pick: Koisha
• Best mid-range choice: Navat Hotel
• Top high-end hotel: Orion Hotel Bishkek

Top experiences in and near Bishkek

• Highlights of Bishkek City Tour
• Bishkek Food Tasting Tour
• Day trip to Ala Archa National Park
• Top hikes and day trips from Bishkek

Plan your trip to Kyrgyzstan

• 20 things you need to know before traveling to Kyrgyzstan
• The 14 best hikes & treks in Kyrgyzstan
• The 9 best horse riding destinations in Kyrgyzstan
• Kyrgyzstan Packing List
• Kyrgyzstan Money Guide
• Kyrgyzstan Travel Insurance

TABLE OF CONTENTS

A few things to know about Bishkek Kyrgyzstan

1. do people in bishkek speak english.

While the younger generation in Bishkek does speak English, most of the adults in their mid-thirties and older do not. They might know a few words of English but they mostly only speak Russian and Kyrgyz. Learning a few words in those languages before your trip will be very helpful.

Here are a few Russian expressions that you could use to communicate with people in Bishkek:

• Gee-dee-yay na-ho-deet-sa magazine?:  Where is the store?
• Skolka sto-it yeda?: How much is a meal?
• Spassiba: Thank-you
• Voo-ee mojhet-ee-ay zapessat eta?: Can you write this down?

Here are a few Kyrgyz expressions that could also be very helpful:

• Salam: Hello
• RaHmat: Thank you
• Tualet Kayda?: Where is the toilet?
• Kança?: How much?
• Men jogolgon jatam: I am lost

If learning languages is not your thing, I would recommend getting your hands on the Lonely Planet Russian phrasebook and dictionary .

It’s packed with thousands of sentences that will help you in different situations and scenarios such as ordering food or finding a place to stay. Check the price for this Russian Phrasebook here.

2. Can you drink the water in Bishkek?

Although I wouldn’t suggest drinking the water anywhere in the country, in Bishkek, the tap water should be absolutely fine. If you just arrived in the country however and your body is not used to the new bacteria, I would suggest bringing a LifeStraw Water Filter Bottle .

This is a reusable bottle that filters water using a microfiltration device. When you drink tap water using this bottle, any bacteria or parasites will be trapped in the fibers of the filter, while the clean water passes through.

It’s not only good for your belly and wallet, it’s also great for the environment because you don’t have to buy any plastic bottles of water! Click here for more info and prices .

3. When is the best time to visit Bishkek?

Bishkek is beautiful all year round but I would say the best time to visit the city is in fall and spring.

The weather in Bishkek is very sunny and hot during summer (June – September) with average temperatures around 35 ° C . It’s better to spend the summer in the beautiful Kyrgyz mountains than inside the city.

Bishkek tends to become cold in winter with average temperatures around -10 ° C / -15 ° C.

9 places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in spring and fall, including best hikes

4. How to get from Bishkek airport to the city center?

Manas airport in Bishkek is the main international airport in Kyrgyzstan so this will probably be the one that you enter or depart the country from. The airport is a 30-minute drive from Bishkek city center.

Taxi drivers will welcome you with a lot of enthusiasm upon arrival at the airport and will be very keen to drive you but know that you shouldn’t pay more than 1000 som (around €10/ $12) for a taxi ride from the airport to the city center.

You can withdraw some money from the ATM’s at the airport but change or withdraw the rest of your cash in Bishkek city itself as the exchange rate will be a lot better!

1 4 Top Things to do in Osh – Osh City Guide

Is Bishkek Safe?

The capital city of Kyrgyzstan is attracting more and more expats, students and travelers every year.

It is very normal to ask yourself the question of whether Bishkek is safe for foreigners. I would say that the capital of Kyrgyzstan is very safe for foreigners.

The Kyrgyz people are very welcoming. When I was living in Bishkek, I often met young Kyrgyz students who were curious about where I came from and who would invite me for a coffee or a meal to talk about my adventures and practice their English.

That being said, expats should still be vigilant about the safety of their personal belongings, especially in open-air markets such as the Osh bazaar or in city buses in Bishkek.

The best solution to avoid being pick-pocketed is to stay very alert and aware of your belongings at all times. You should leave all your important and valuable items at your hotel and walk around only with what is absolutely necessary.

Keep your wallet in your front pocket or carry a money belt . Another great option is to travel with a slash-resistant and lockable anti-theft bag . I would also recommend getting good travel insurance that covers theft .

Need Travel Insurance for Central Asia ? I use and highly recommend HeyMondo Travel Insurance . As a reader of Journal of Nomads, you get a 5% discount off your insurance plan!

Expats in Bishkek is a good Facebook group to become part of when moving to Kyrgyzstan. There are hundreds of expats and locals in this group that can answer your questions concerning safety around the country and that can help you adapt to life in Central Asia.

Is Kyrgyzstan safe? 15 useful things to know before you go

13 Top things to do in Bishkek

Here are some of the sights I would absolutely recommend visiting in and around Bishkek in one or two days.

Tip:  Install the app  maps.me , download the map of Kyrgyzstan and bookmark these places in the app. Google Maps isn’t always accurate in Central Asia but Maps.me does the job and works offline as well!

Top Tip: This Bishkek city tour  covers the most important historical, cultural, & traditional places of Bishkek!

1) Visit the Osh Bazaar and markets in Bishkek

Bishkek has some very interesting markets where you can find paraphernalia of exotic items from the Soviet era. The most photogenic and interesting one is the Osh Bazaar at the corner of Chuy and Kuliev Street.

It’s a place that is always full of activity and people come here everyday to buy products from all over the Kyrgyz republic. It’s such a big market that you could easily spend a whole day there and not see all of it. The Osh Bazaar is one of the top places to visit in Bishkek for photographers.

Useful Tips to Visit the Osh Bazaar in Bishkek

Another very interesting bazaar to visit in Bishkek is the Dordoi bazaar . This one is located at a 20-minute drive from the city. From the city center of Bishkek, it’s possible to catch a taxi to the bazaar for about 300 som.

It’s Central Asia’s largest market for imports. This place is huge and contains over 30,000 containers selling items from all over the world. It supposedly is one of the ten largest markets in the world according to different sources.

A third Bazaar that is worth mentioning is the Soviet bazaar but this one is only open on Sundays between 7 and 11 AM and is located between Orto-Sai bazaar and Beta 2.

2) Enjoy an evening at the Kyrgyz National Opera and Ballet Theater

If you want to have interesting insights into the Central-Asian art scene and see performances of good caliber, the Kyrgyz National Opera and Ballet Theatre is the place to visit.

The performances at this theater are usually well put together. The theater showcases performances by local students and higher caliber performances by Russian and Kyrgyz artists.

It’s the ideal activity after a day spent visiting the parks of Bishkek. It’s also totally worth it considering the very affordable prices of the shows. I had a chance to see a ballet performance there based on the story of Romeo and Juliet and really enjoyed it.

3) Go for a walk in one of the many parks

When I think back about the year I spent in Bishkek, the beautiful parks of the city are what first pop into my mind. The one I would recommend visiting during your first day in Bishkek is Oak Park .

Oak park is located not too far from Ala-Too square and is the perfect place to relax on your first evening in Bishkek. The park has ping-pong tables, plenty of squirrels, beautiful sculptures and majestic oak trees.

The park is visited by families during the day and lovers in the evening. While I was living in Bishkek, it was one of my favorite places to lie down in the grass in the shade of the trees and relax in the afternoon.

Not too far from this park, you’ll also find one of my favorite restaurants in Bishkek– Arzu (see below for where to eat in Bishkek)

If you feel like you could enjoy a long walk on the first day of your trip, you could also visit Erkindik park right in the city center.

This place is as soothing as Oak Park and when I was living in Bishkek, it used to be my favorite place to go for a morning jog. It’s a park that is very long and narrow and there is a running path right in the middle of it. This Park showcases art exhibitions on a regular basis.

And last but not least, Panfilov Park . The park was made in the shape of a star when it was built and has an area that is home to outdoor amusements and carnival rides.

4) Visit Ala-Too Square

Ala-Too Square is the center and heart of Bishkek. I rented a small apartment just 15 minutes from it and the square became part of my daily walks when I wanted to take some time off from my online work .

In summer the square becomes very lively. Families go there to spend time strolling around the fountains and admire the huge statue of Manas that overlooks the whole area.

This statue was built to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Kyrgyzstan’s independence. It really dominates the square and if the wind is blowing the giant flag, the combination of the two against the sky is absolutely impressive. You can also watch hourly the change of the guards who stand in a little boot in front of the flag.

In the middle of summer, I wouldn’t recommend visiting this square during the day though because it becomes extremely hot when the sun rays heat it up. It’s better to go there for a walk in the early evening.

5) Visit the State History Museum

The  State History Museum in Bishkek on Ala-Too Square contains several exhibits about the cultural heritage of the Kyrgyz people, whose sculptures and objects dating from antiquity to the end of the 20th century. It is one of the most important museums in Central Asia.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am until 6pm. The entrance ticket costs 300 som.

Don’t forget to the backyard of the museum where you’ll see a large statue of Lenin. This statue used to be in the front of the museum but got replaced by a statue of the national hero Manas.

6) Walk by the Victory Monument

The Victory Monument is definitely a sight to see in Bishkek. It has three large curved arks that are meant to represent a yurt in the center of a beautiful square filled with flowers. This monument was built to commemorate world war two during which many Kyrgyz soldiers fought.

Right under the three arks is the sculpture of a woman. She represents a Kyrgyz mother waiting for the return of her husband and son from the war.

The monument and the flowers that surround it are very beautiful but there is another reason you might want to check this place out – weddings. The amount of newlywed couples that choose this place for their wedding pictures is astonishing.

Once, I visited this monument and during the fifteen minutes that I spent there, I saw almost 30 newlywed couples lining up to take a picture under the arches.

If you want to see what the traditional wedding dresses of brides and grooms look like in Kyrgyzstan, you’re bound to see it near the victory monument.

7) Go for a Russian Banya in one of the bathhouses

If you want to have an experience that is typically Kyrgyz, you have to visit one of the bathhouses in Bishkek.

During the Soviet period, tons of saunas and bath houses were built around Kyrgyzstan and they still play an important role in the everyday life of this Central-Asian country.

They are usually called Banyas and locals visit them for their numerous health benefits. They are known to help with diseases related to the nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems. It’s also a place where people go just to hang out and spend a fun evening with friends.

The saunas are usually filled with steam, hot splashing water, and the rhythmic sounds of the Kyrgyz language.

It’s a place where you’ll be surrounded by beautiful white marble slabs, people scrubbing themselves and whipping each other with leafy birch twigs.

These birch twigs are called a Venik (it literally means broom in Russian). People visiting Banyas usually whip each other with it to scrub off the dirt from the skin and it’s also believed to improve fertility.

If there is one bathhouse that I would recommend in Bishkek, it’s Zhirgal Banya. It’s located on the corner of Ibraimov and Toktogul. This bathhouse has two huge white domes so it’s pretty hard to miss.

On top of having saunas that are very relaxing, this bathhouse has two large pools of ice-cold water under its huge brick domes. It feels fantastic to dive in the cold water after sweating so much.

8) Enjoy a great coffee in one of Bishkek’s many cafes

Bishkek has an amazing collection of small cafes with great internet connections. I often tell my friends who work remotely that Bishkek is the ideal city for digital nomads .

One cafe I absolutely recommend for the delicious coffee and the cool crowd of backpackers and expats that go there is Sierra Coffee . The food is equally fantastic. They offer freshly roasted coffee, smoothies, soups, salads, sandwiches, muffins, and cookies.

When I lived in Bishkek, I was mainly working online and this café was my prime spot to get some work done while sipping on cups of black coffee.

9) Try some Kyrgyz food in one of the traditional restaurants

Kyrgyzstan might not be the destination for an exquisite culinary trip, most of the food is hearty and tasty. Most meals consist of mutton, beef and chicken meat, served in dumplings, on top of noodles or rice or alongside potatoes. People in Kyrgyzstan typically eat meat every day.

If you’re a vegetarian, it will be harder to find some typical Kyrgyz dishes without meat but it’s not impossible.

As a vegan, you’ll have a challenging time and you can expect to get some weird looks when asking for meals without animal products.

One of my favorite restaurants in Bishkek for traditional dishes is a place called Arzu (see below). They have two big dining rooms and an outdoor terrace with beautiful fountains.

Top Tip: This Bishkek Food Tasting Tour  offers a unique flavor of Bishkek, showcasing the traditional Kyrgyz cuisine so you can experience the best flavors of Bishkek. Along the way, you’ll also learn about the city’s rich history and culture by visiting famous monuments and landmarks.

10) Have some delicious craft beer

Bishkek has some amazing breweries where you can taste local and international beers.

One place I particularly loved is called Brewster Craft Beer . They have a great selection of locally brewed IPA, APA, red ale, and Belgian ale as well as a delicious apple cider.

The food at Brewster is also very good and everything is reasonably priced. This brewery kind of became our regular Friday routine in Bishkek. If you want to drink some great local beers, this is the place to visit.

Another awesome bar with some great craft beer is called Save the Ales . While Brewster is set in a basement and gives the vibe of an English pub, Save the Ales has an outdoor area with chairs and tables. If the weather is nice, you might want to pay Save the Ales a visit.

11) Walk by the White House

Your trip to Bishkek city should definitely include a visit to the White House since it’s the seat of all the administrative power in the country.

Before Kyrgyzstan became a democracy, this building used to be the headquarters of the Kyrgyz Communist Committee. It’s not possible to go in but it looks very impressive from the outside.

12) Go on a soviet Architecture tour in Bishkek

As a former member of the USSR, Kyrgyzstan’s capital city is full of intriguing Soviet-style buildings that can be used as a roadmap for discovery.

Here’s a great guide for a short walking tour through the center of Bishkek that will let you see (and stop at) some of the highlights of the collection of Soviet architecture on offer. It’s in my opinion one of the most interesting things to do in Bishkek.

Top Tip: This Bishkek Soviet Tour  is a guided half-day tour during which your guide explains the layers of history in Bishkek, from the Soviet times to how the city culture has changed to what it is today.

13) Go on a Day trip from Bishkek

Bishkek city offers some fun activities and interesting places to see but the countryside nearby is also filled with beautiful sites.

You might want to escape from the city after a day or two to enjoy Kyrgyzstan’s wild mountains and pristine valleys.

You don’t have to go far from Bishkek to find yourself in the midst of nature. You could hike and see some of the most spectacular landscapes that Kyrgyzstan has to offer in one day.

I wrote a complete guide on the best day trips from Bishkek .

The 8 Best Hikes and Day Trips from Bishkek

Some of these day trips are hard to reach indepently as public transport doesn’t go there. To save yourself the time and hustle to get there, there are some guided day trips from Bishkek that I highly recommend:

Where to eat in Bishkek: What are the best restaurants in Bishkek?

Bishkek offers a wide variety of restaurants and (inter)national cuisines.

If you like sushi, you should eat at the Japanese restaurant Furusato . If you want to taste the Georgian cuisine, I highly recommend Papuri . If you’re up for some Korean style fried chicken, Chicken Star is a popular place in Bishkek.

If you’re craving some western food, beers and cocktails after spending weeks (months?) in the Kyrgyz mountains, I highly recommend Pinta Pub , Red Cow and Social Coffee .

However, you should go at least once to a tradition Kyrgyz restaurant. Here are the restaurants I recommend in the city center of Bishkek if you want to eat the traditional Kyrgyz food:

Arzu is located in the center of Bishkek and just 5 minutes walking from Ala Too square. It’s a place where you can enjoy fantastic food and great service at a very affordable price.

Arzu’s specialty is local traditional Kyrgyz food. I highly recommend trying the manti, the lagman, the sweet and sour chicken, and the meatball dumplings. If you want to sample traditional dishes, this is the place to visit.

The restaurant has an outdoor terrace and seating area which I highly recommend during the summer.

Navat is another great restaurant in Bishkek to try some traditional dishes. The restaurant has a wonderful assortment of regional meals in a lovely ambiance.

There are musicians that occasionally play traditional music in the restaurant. Navat is beautifully decorated and the customer service there is fantastic.

I would suggest trying their beef dumplings. If you don’t eat meat, they have very good vegetarian and vegan options.

There are a couple of Navat restaurants in Bishkek as it’s a franchise. You can find one in Togolok Moldo Street and one in Baityk Baatyr Street .

3. Frunze Restaurant

Named after the renowned statesman, Mikhail Frunze, this restaurant is an ode to the country’s past. The menu features an array of dishes, blending Kyrgyz, Russian, and European influences. The elegant decor and attentive service add to the dining experience.

Frunze restaurant is located next to Oak Park so the perfect place to enjoy dinner after a day of sightseeing in Bishkek.

Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide: 20 things you should know before you go

Where to stay in Bishkek: What are the best hostels and hotels in Bishkek?

Bishkek attracts travelers from all over the world and it’s actually an inexpensive city for people who are traveling around Kyrgyzstan on a budget .

Bishkek offers a nice choice of hostels for budget travelers who want to save money to explore during the day, and swap stories with fellow backpackers in the shared kitchen or bar in the evening.

The best hostels in Bishkek

Situated at a 5-minute walk from Osh Bazaar , Koisha offers both private and dorm rooms, some with their own patio. The hostel also has a shared lounge, and a beautiful outdoor terrace where you can prepare your own meals in the outdoor kitchen.

Check the rates and availability for Koisha here.

Compass Hostel

Compass Hostel is a relatively new hostel in the center of Bishkek. It has a very nice decoration that blends a modern slick design with traditional Kyrgyz elements.

The rooms are very spacious, they have very big windows, and they are usually very quiet. This creates a really relaxing atmosphere.

Almost every room comes with a little work desk and plenty of storage space. The common areas are very clean and well maintained and a nice big breakfast is served every morning. The hostel is also well located next to a lot of nice cafes and restaurants.

Click to check out rates and availability for “Compass Hostel”

Apple Hostel

Apple Hostel Bishkek is just a ten-minute walk from the Western Bus Station in case you’re planning an early trip or arriving late in Bishkek.

The rooms of the hostel are spaciious, the beds are comfy and almost all the rooms come with lockers. There is a great breakfast (porridge, sandwich or eggs with pancakes) served every morning. There is also the possibility of renting a yurt in the backyard of the hostel.

Click to check out rates and availability for “Apple Hostel Bishkek”

The best hotels in Bishkek

Here are the best choices for mid-range budget hotels in the city center of Bishkek:

• Navat Hotel
• Bishkek Centrum Hotel

If you’re looking for a high-end hotel, I recommend:

• Orion Hotel Bishkek
• Plaza Hotel
• Smart Hotel Bishkek

How to get to Bishkek?

How to get to bishkek from almaty.

Almaty, one of Kazakhstan’s largest cities, is a destination from which a lot of people will travel to Bishkek.

How to get to Bishkek from Almaty

How to get to Bishkek from Osh?

Flights between Bishkek and Osh are cheap and it’s the option I would recommend if you don’t have much time to spend in Kyrgyzstan and you need to reach Bishkek quickly.

Osh International is a small airport located just 10km away from the city center of Osh. The airport offers number of direct daily flights within Kyrgyzstan. Tez Jet and Air Manas all have flights that leave daily, taking about an hour and will cost you around €50/ $55.

If time is on your side and you’d rather take a more scenic route by road, you can take a shared taxi which will take you roughly 12 hours depending on the driver and the conditions and it will cost you about €25 per person. The taxis leave from the new bus station in Osh .

14 Top Things to do in Osh – Osh City Guide

How to get to Bishkek from Karakol?

Karakol is the third biggest city in Kyrgyzstan. Because of its location on the eastern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul , it will very likely be the starting point for trips toward Bishkek.

There are plenty of minibuses (mashrutkas) and shared taxis connecting the two cities. They gather at the Karakol main bus station and at the bazaar in Karakol . Taxis and marshrutkas can be found throughout the day at the bus station. They usually leave once they are full.

The journey from Karakol to Bishkek takes around 6 to 7 hours. A ticket for the minibus costs 350 KGS per person, a shared taxi takes half an hour off your journey but costs more – 600 to 800 KGS per person.

As of December 26, 2022, Kyrgyzstan introduced  GoBus , a daily charter bus from Bishkek to Karakol. I haven’t tried this means of transport yet but it’s supposed to be a very comfortable bus with accurate travel time (really curious about that as punctuality isn’t very common in Kyrgyzstan…), and free WiFi on board.

The bus leaves at the main bus station in Karakol . A ticket costs 450 KGS, which you can book via the  GOBUS app , where you can also find the travel route and where to catch the bus from.  If you decide to try out this bus, can you give me and other readers an update in the comments below of how the journey went?

15 Top Things to do in Karakol – The Complete Karakol City Guide

How to get to Bishkek from Tashkent?

Tashkent is the capital of Uzbekistan and it’s also possible to take a night bus between the two cities.

How to get from Tashkent to Bishkek by bus

I hope this Bishkek city guide was useful and that you’ll have a great time in Bishkek. If you have any questions or if you’ve already been to Bishkek, I’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

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4 thoughts on “13 top things to do in bishkek, kyrgyzstan in 2024- the complete bishkek city guide”.

we are travelling to Kyrgyzstan in Sep 2023, I just can’t wait. Your blog is so helpful and easy to read. Thanks.

Thanks so much Lydia!

What a lovely blog. The details are very clear and many thanks for making this. I am a bit skeptical to travel alone , is that fine especially that there is no English even to understand basic routes and ask people out there.

Hi Durgesh, I’m happy to hear you like my blog! You’ll be fine traveling alone. Some people speak English, mainly the younger people. I’d also recommend installing Google translate to use offline. I didn’t speak any Russian or Kyrgyz when I first arrived in the country but I still was able to get around and have a great experience. When are you planning on traveling to Kyrgyzstan?

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Cost of a Trip to Bishkek, KG & the Cheapest Time to Visit Bishkek

The average price of a 7-day trip to Bishkek is $1,439 for a solo traveler, $2,584 for a couple, and $4,845 for a family of 4 . Bishkek hotels range from $35 to $210 per night with an average of $61, while most vacation rentals will cost $20 to $260 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Manas Airport ( FRU ) are between $904 and $1,588 per person for economy flights and $2,837 to $4,983 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $31 to $64 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Bishkek, KG

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to FRU and stay in a Bishkek hotel:

• January 15th to February 4th
• March 26th to May 13th
• August 20th to December 9th

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Bishkek is usually early to mid October .

Average Bishkek Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Bishkek for a week is $917-$2,147 ($131-$307 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $31 to $64 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $520 to $1,429 for economy

Lodging : $39 to $45 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $30 to $36 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Bishkek for a week is $2,422-$4,342 ($346-$620 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $62 to $128 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,040 to $2,858 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Bishkek for a week is $3,200-$8,048 ($457-$1,150 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $124 to $256 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,080 to $5,716 for economy

Lodging : $78 to $90 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $42 to $50 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Bishkek

How cheap can you make a vacation to Bishkek? The cheapest trip to Bishkek is about $104 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 25% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $20 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $29.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Bishkek for a week is $731-$1,971 ($104-$282 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $13 to $26 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $29 to $35 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $20 to $60 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Bishkek for a week is $1,342-$3,582 ($192-$512 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $26 to $52 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Bishkek for a week is $2,624-$7,020 ($375-$1,003 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $52 to $104 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $58 to $70 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $30 to $96 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is easy to travel to Bishkek cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Bishkek Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Bishkek.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Bishkek for a week is $2,120-$7,958 ($303-$1,137 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $65 to $128 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,191 to $3,630 for first class

Lodging : $79 to $210 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $260 to $572 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Bishkek for a week is $3,766-$12,484 ($538-$1,783 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $130 to $256 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,382 to $7,260 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Bishkek for a week is $7,532-$22,910 ($1,076-$3,273 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $260 to $512 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $4,764 to $14,520 for first class

Lodging : $158 to $420 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $364 to $801 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Bishkek Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Bishkek is lower than the average city. On average vacation rentals are less expensive than hotels. Luxury hotels are more expensive in Bishkek due to hotel employees. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Bishkek Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Bishkek hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Bishkek.

Flight Costs to Bishkek

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,588 average in early March to a low of $904 in early to mid October. Median flight price is $956. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Bishkek our data includes 71 originating airports, and 74 airlines. The area has more variance in price compared with other locations. Flying to Bishkek from an airport like William P Hobby ( HOU ) in Houston, TX (the United States) for an average $6,555 trip fare will obviously cost a lot more than from an airport like Almaty ( ALA ) in Almaty (Kazakhstan) at an average of just $136.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Wednesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Bishkek, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $683, so you can easily save about 76% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Bishkek can easily cost $200 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $13 per person. Private tours can cost $396 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Bishkek Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• Bala-Chychkan, Kyrgyzstan
• Almaty, Kazakhstan
• Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyzstan
• Kapchagay, Kazakhstan
• Osh, Kyrgyzstan
• Andijon, Uzbekistan
• Taraz, Kazakhstan
• Namangan, Uzbekistan
• Kashgar, China

Travel Costs in Popular Places

• Bengaluru, India
• Catania, Italy
• Taichung, Taiwan

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

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Bishkek to Moscow Flights

Whether you’re looking for a grand adventure or just want to get away for a last-minute break, flights from Bishkek to Moscow offer the perfect respite. Not only does exploring Moscow provide the chance to make some magical memories, dip into delectable dishes, and tour the local landmarks, but the cheap airfare means you won’t bust your budget. So no matter whether your ideal itinerary involves flying one way, non-stop, or round trip, you’re bound to find flights that match your schedule on Expedia, and at prices that won’t shock your wallet.

Bagging a cheap flight from Bishkek to Moscow may mean more dollars to spend on for one-of-a-kind souvenirs when you arrive, but it doesn’t mean you have to skimp on your travel experience, as Expedia offers a sizzling selection of cheap airlines that’ll put you in your happy place on their planes, whether that’s getting lost in a hair-raising airport thriller, dreaming on the passing landscape over a glass of bubbly, or jotting down your vacation bucket list at 38,000 feet. There’s also bound to be plenty of opportunities to snap a few photos of the high life that will make your friends green with envy. After all, enjoying the journey is part of the fun.

With so many affordable flights and so many wonderful adventures awaiting you, there’s no reason to put off booking a fantastic flight from to today. So don’t leave it to the last minute to make your dream trip a reality: pack your bags with your go-to travel accessories, put together your list of must-see attractions and can’t-miss activities, and get ready to broaden your horizons – with Expedia, the wonders of Moscow are only a plane trip away. Book your travel arrangements with us today!

If you would like to book flights to Moscow more flexibly many prefer to purchase one-way tickets with options to take different airlines. A one way ticket to Moscow is now!

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Top Routes from Bishkek

• Bishkek to Chicago (FRU - ORD)
• Bishkek to Newark (FRU - EWR)
• Bishkek to Los Angeles (FRU - LAX)
• Bishkek to Washington (FRU - DCA)
• Bishkek to Bangkok (FRU - BKK)
• Bishkek to New York (FRU - LGA)
• Bishkek to Tashkent (FRU - TAS)
• Bishkek to Istanbul (FRU - SAW)
• Bishkek to Delhi (FRU - DEL)
• Bishkek to Istanbul (FRU - IST)
• Bishkek to Washington (FRU - IAD)
• Bishkek to New York (FRU - JFK)

Top Routes to Moscow

• Los Angeles to Moscow (LAX - VKO)
• East Midlands to Moscow (EMA - VKO)
• Turkish Airlines Bishkek to Washington

Top Flight Destinations

• Flights to Moscow
• Flights to St. Petersburg
• Flights to Kaliningrad
• Flights to Vladivostok
• Flights to Sochi
• Flights to Gay
• Flights to Novosibirsk
• Flights to Kazan
• Flights to Yekaterinburg
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• Flights to Samara
• Flights to Voronezh
• Turkish Airlines
• Pegasus Airlines
• Uzbekistan Airways
• China Southern Airlines
• Azerbaijan Airlines
• Zhejiang Loong Airlines
• T'Way Air
• S7 Airlines

Nearby Airports

• Issyk-Kul Intl. Airport (IKU)
• Osh Airport (OSS)

Climate Change Is Making Airplane Turbulence More Common and Severe, Scientists Say

Following turbulence on a flight last week that led to one death and dozens of injuries, researchers, flight attendants and transportation officials alike are warning about links between warmer air and turbulence

Christian Thorsberg

Daily Correspondent

Passengers aboard a Singapore Airlines flight last week hit severe turbulence over the Indian Ocean—and in the span of just one second, the plane dropped by 178 feet . One passenger, a 73-year-old man, died , and dozens of other people were injured. The plane, which was traveling from London to Singapore, made an emergency landing in Bangkok, and news of the incident has placed airplane turbulence—and the science behind it—back into national and international conversations.

And for good reason: Research suggests air turbulence has already become more common, and it is projected to grow even more frequent and severe because of climate change . Most of these in-flight disturbances are harmless, so long as safety procedures are adhered to. But more intense instances of turbulence could create more stressful or dangerous flight experiences for passengers and flight attendants alike.

“It is not that we’ll have to stop flying, or planes will start falling out of the sky,” Paul Williams , an atmospheric scientist at the University of Reading who has researched air turbulence, tells Nature News ’ Carissa Wong. “I’m just saying that for every ten minutes you’ve spent in severe turbulence in the past, it could be 20 or 30 minutes in the future.”

IN PICTURES: The damaged interior of @SingaporeAir flight SQ321 after it hit severe turbulence and was forced to make an emergency landing in Bangkok. One man died in the incident (Photos: Reuters) https://t.co/JZfqJcRzdM pic.twitter.com/MzlXOdQ6yd — CNA (@ChannelNewsAsia) May 21, 2024

Williams and others published a study in 2019, suggesting higher atmospheric temperatures, a result of global warming, have contributed significantly to more turbulence. Severe incidents of airplane turbulence increased by 55 percent from 1979 to 2020, per a study last year. And wind shear—the sudden change in wind strength or direction, over a short distance—at airplane cruising altitudes has increased by 15 percent since 1979, a trend expected to further increase by between 17 percent and 29 percent by the end of the century.

In the atmosphere, warmer air can hold more water vapor, giving rise to even warmer temperatures in turn. This can create differences in air temperature, the researchers write , making wind shear more common. Their findings suggest that turbulence strong enough to pose a risk of injury could become two or three times more likely  over the North Atlantic between 2050 and 2080.

“It’s affecting the wind patterns, and one of those impacts that is being affected are jet streams,” Todd Lane , an atmospheric scientist at the University of Melbourne, tells the Australian Broadcasting Corporation ’s Jo Lauder. “Those jet streams that are at aircraft flight levels are projected to intensify, which means that those regions will become more turbulent.”

Some turbulence is caused by thunderstorms, which are also projected to worsen with climate change . But other turbulence is not linked to storms, making it more difficult for pilots to predict. This clear-air turbulence, also called “invisible” turbulence, is also projected to increase —under some climate change scenarios, it could be four times more common by 2050 compared to historic levels.

Turbulence occurs all across the globe and is felt most often near mountain ranges and the edges of jet streams. The world’s three most turbulent flight paths are: Santiago, Chile, to Santa Cruz, Bolivia; Almaty, Kazakhstan, to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan; and Lanzhou, China, to Chengdu, China.

But American travelers on domestic flights aren’t exempt from the trend. U.S. pilots report 65,000 incidents of at least moderate turbulence and 5,500 incidents of severe or greater turbulence each year.

Sara Nelson , president of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, a union representing flight attendants, called turbulence a “serious workplace safety issue” last week, per the Washington Post ’s Hannah Sampson.

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg said on CBS News’ “Face the Nation” program Sunday that turbulence is occurring more frequently, and climate change is a significant factor that will “affect American travelers, whether here or abroad.”

“Our climate is evolving,” Buttigieg said, according to CNBC ’s Sean Conlon. “Our policies and our technology and our infrastructure have to evolve accordingly, too.”

Technologies for detecting turbulence are getting better, and new innovations are on the way. Pilots are currently able to use turbulence forecasts, which indicate the smoothest routes to take. And turbulence caused by stormy weather is often identified by weather centers, satellites and on-ground sensors and radars.

Clear-air turbulence, however, is still difficult to reliably predict. But developments in lidar technologies, though still expensive and too cumbersome to put into practice, have shown promise.

“I’ve seen some experimental flights, and you can indeed see clear-air turbulence 20 miles, for example, ahead of the aircraft,” Williams tells Nature News.

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Christian Thorsberg | READ MORE

Christian Thorsberg is an environmental writer and photographer from Chicago. His work, which often centers on freshwater issues, climate change and subsistence, has appeared in Circle of Blue , Sierra  magazine, Discover  magazine and Alaska Sporting Journal .

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On the Brazilian Coast, a Tropical Town Beloved by Artists and Makers

A guide to Paraty, on the Costa Verde, with tips on where to stay, shop and island hop from the artist Vik Muniz and four other insiders.

By Nora Walsh

T’s monthly travel series, Flocking To , highlights places you might already have on your wish list, sharing tips from frequent visitors and locals alike. Sign up here to find us in your inbox once a month, and to receive our weekly T List newsletter. Have a question? You can always reach us at [email protected] .

Roughly halfway between São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, the coastal town of Paraty (population 45,000) isn’t the easiest place to reach. It requires a four-hour, mostly mountainous drive from either city, a 45-minute helicopter charter or arrival by sea. It’s that relative seclusion that keeps the tourist hordes and unbridled development at bay, despite the town’s obvious appeal. Set on Brazil’s Costa Verde, with mountains covered in rainforest on one side and the emerald green waters of Ilha Grande Bay on the other, Paraty (pronounced para-CHEE by locals), preserves more than 30 blocks as its historic quarter, a grid of pedestrian-only cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed 18th- and 19th-century facades, many of them remnants of the Portuguese colonial era.

Starting in the mid-1600s, the town grew prosperous as a seaport during the country’s gold rush (many of the biggest gold mines were in the neighboring inland state Minas Gerais) — and as a hub for the slave trade. African slaves not only worked in the mines but built much of the town’s early infrastructure, such as its roads. Once the gold stopped coming through Paraty for export in the early 1700s, the town continued to harvest sugar cane and produce cachaça, the national spirit, before shifting its economic focus to the coffee trade. At the end of the 19th century, Santos, 190 miles to the south, supplanted Paraty as the country’s primary coffee-exporting port, and the town began to languish. “It fell off the map,” says Luana Assunção, the owner of the Rio-based travel company Free Walker Tours. “It became isolated and poor. Many houses were abandoned.”

By the 1970s, a new highway and an influx of urban transplants had given Paraty an infusion of new life. Lured by the area’s affordability, a number of artists, designers and other creative types began renovating the old mansions and opening a handful of galleries, boutiques, cafes and small hotels, turning the long-forgotten town into an alluring vacation destination.

“I was worried that mass tourism would endanger the future of the culture and the nature in Paraty, but it didn’t happen,” says the nature photographer Dom João de Orleans e Bragança, who has been visiting Paraty since 1968 and now lives there most of the year. He credits the strict building codes for imbuing the town with a certain timeless quality, even after the pandemic when the area’s second-home owners began spending more time in Paraty. “You’ll never see a skyscraper, and we don’t have big resorts or hotels here.”

What Paraty does have is easy access to the dozens of small islands and sandy coves across the bay (local traineiras , renovated wooden fishing boats; large schooners; and speedboats are all available for visitors to rent for daylong outings), and the countless hiking trails, waterfalls and beaches that are part of the massive Serra da Bocaina National Park. Visitors can also make day trips to a handful of villages home to Indigenous and historic Black settlements that have maintained a strong cultural identity. “There’s layer upon layer here,” said Lena Santana, a Brazilian costume and fashion designer who has been living in Paraty for the last decade. “It creates a certain kind of depth that makes people want to stay.” Here, Santana and four other locals and longtime Paraty visitors share their recommendations for where to stay, eat and explore.

The Insiders

Silvia Furmanovich , a fine-jewelry designer based between São Paulo and New York City, has been traveling to Paraty every other year for the past three decades.

The artist and photographer Vik Muniz , who lives in Rio de Janeiro and New York City, has been visiting Paraty since 1999.

Diana Radomysler is a partner and director of the interiors and design department at the São Paulo-based architecture firm Studio MK27. She travels to Paraty annually with her family.

Lena Santana , who was born in Salvador, Brazil, and moved to Paraty a decade ago after 15 years in London, owns a boutique, Atelier Napele, in the historic center, and Bus Stop Paraty, a guesthouse, 12 miles outside of town in Playa Grande.

Gisela Schmitt , originally from São Paulo, is the chef and owner of Paraty’s Gastromar restaurant and a boat-catering company.

Illustrations by Richard Pedaline

“I love to stay at Casa Turquesa , built on the ruins of an 18th-century mansion in the old town. Everything in the Turquoise Suite is white and turquoise, from the fabrics to the artwork. One room has prints from the British botanical artist Margaret Mee, who spent decades traveling to the Amazon documenting flora, which have inspired my work in the past.” (Rooms from about $520 a night.) — Silvia Furmanovich

“I always suggest that friends stay at the Pousada Literária de Paraty, a cozy hotel within a cluster of historic mansions that surround a tropical garden — they return enchanted by both the hotel and its restaurant.” (Rooms from about $350 a night.) — Diana Radomysler

“The Brazilian travel company Matueté has a selection of villas. You can rent the interior designer Linda Pinto’s house in the historic quarter close to the waterfront. It has a beautiful courtyard, so the house is flooded with natural light.” (Rentals from about $1,500 a night, with a three-night minimum.) — Gisela Schmitt

Eat and Drink

“At Banana da Terra , the chef Ana Bueno cooks contemporary Caiçara [the main Indigenous community of the area] cuisine in a charming restaurant in the historic quarter. She offers things like mango and shrimp salad and a hamburger made with crab meat. After dinner, go to Gelateria Miracolo for ice cream and try the flavor made with cupuaçu, an Amazonian fruit that’s closely related to cacao.” — S.F.

“Head to Graúna [about 12 miles north of Paraty], a beautiful valley in the Atlantic Forest, for lunch at Le Gite d’Indaiatiba . The chef is like a wizard of the forest. She makes her ravioli with taioba, an edible plant from the jungle [similar to collard greens]. Call ahead and ask them to prepare the sauna, which is next to a swimmable waterfall on the property.” — G.S.

“ Fugu Japanese Food is a new restaurant that only serves fish that’s been caught fresh the same day, like sororoca [a white local fish] and prejereba [tripletail]. Don’t miss the tuna starter with locally grown shiitake mushrooms or the teishoku, a wooden box with 12 different small portions of menu items, including the day’s fresh catch. There’s also a great sake selection. For dessert, have the wasabi ice cream.” — D.R.

“Recently, one of my favorite designers from São Paulo, Flavia Aranha , opened a store in Paraty. Her pieces are timeless, produced in organic fabrics or natural fibers dyed with Brazilian plants and herbs.” — D.R.

“For handwoven baskets, go to Cestarias Regio Paraty in the historic center. They come in all sizes and are made by local communities. I love the ones made from covo, a fiber extracted from bamboo, that are used to go fishing.” — G.S.

“Visit the village of Cunha in the Paraíba Valley, where the Japanese couple Mieko and Toshiyuki Ukeseki started firing ceramics in a noborigama [a traditional Japanese wood-fired chamber kiln] in the 1970s. A small community of ceramists joined them, and you can buy their pieces at their ateliers or at the ceramics festivals that Cunha hosts throughout the year.” — L.S.

“To pick up authentic Indigenous arts and crafts, such as vases and musical instruments, go to Canoa Arte Indígena . I bought several baskets from there that now decorate my office in São Paulo.” — S.F.

“Paraty has some of the best cachaça in Brazil. My favorite brand is Cachaça Maria Izabel . [Maria Izabel] and her daughters own a sugar cane plantation in Sítio Santo Antônio, about six miles north of Paraty, where they still produce the spirit by hand. You can do a tasting at the distillery and buy bottles there, or at shops in town.” — V.M.

“The Livraria das Marés is a big-city bookstore in a small town. It’s a contemporary space designed by the architect Bel Lobo with black metal shelves and a wood-paneled floor and ceiling. There’s a delightful cafe at the back.” — D.R.

“Don’t miss Saco do Mamanguá, which is the world’s only tropical fjord. You can only get there by boat, and you’ll pass Caiçara villages along small beaches. From there, you can hike to the peak of Mamanguá’s Pão de Açúcar for dramatic views of the entire Ilha Grande Bay. Another option is to rent kayaks at one of the beaches and paddle deep into the mangroves at the very end of the fjord.” — G.S.

“ Fazenda Bananal is a great place to take children. It’s a nature preserve in the forest with a farmhouse. There are walking trails, farm animals and a restaurant called Ninho that’s absolutely incredible. Many of the ingredients come from the farm. I had the best slow-cooked pork of my life there.” — V.M.

“Visit Quilombo do Campinho [a settlement about 10 miles south of Paraty founded at the end of the 19th century by formerly enslaved people]. There’s a restaurant that serves fresh grilled fish and a shop with beautiful wooden animal sculptures, rugs made of straw, bamboo furniture and jewelry made from local tropical seeds. On the way home, stop at the village of Paraty-Mirim, where you can buy artisanal wares from the Guaraní tribe; then swim at its gorgeous beach, which is bordered by mountains and a river.” — L.S.

“One of the best ways to enjoy Paraty by sea is to book Gisela Schmitt’s Sem Pressa boat tour, which takes you to the surrounding coves and swimming spots (my favorite is Saco da Velha) while offering delicious local plates like cachaça- and beet-cured prejereba [tripletail fish], fresh oysters and mussels.” — V.M.

Practical Matters

“It’s fun to be in Paraty during one of its festivals. There’s FLIP [Festa Literária Internacional de Paraty], a large and influential literary festival [this year it will be held in October] and loads of other events throughout the town.” — L.S.

“The best time to visit is from May to August, when there’s less rain, the sky is beautiful and the sea is wonderful.” — G.S.

These interviews have been edited and condensed.

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10 Surprisingly Spacious Personal Item Bags to Score Ahead of Your Summer Travels — From $10

Shop comfy backpacks, duffels, and tote bags up to 67 percent off.

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

Even when flying coach, travelers often have the option to pack a personal item alongside their carry-on luggage — and if you’re smart, you’ll optimize that additional space wisely. A good personal item should be unassumingly roomy while still fitting under the seat of most commercial airplanes, but most of all, it should be easy to carry alongside your existing suitcase. Whether you’re partial to a backpack, a duffel, or even a large purse as your bag of choice, Amazon is equipped with the best gear for the job.

With options from brands like Rockland , Travelpro , Matein , and more, we’ve rounded up the 10 best personal item bags on sale at Amazon right now. And seeing as deals extend up to 67 percent off, we’re sure you’re not going to want to miss out. Regardless of what trips you’re looking forward to in the near future, you’ll have no trouble finding a selection that fits your exact requirements — starting at just $10.

Narwey for Spirit Airlines Foldable Travel Duffel Bag

The hallmark of any good personal item is its ability to easily fit under your airplane seat without taking up valuable foot space, and seeing as this Narwey tote is specifically designed with Spirit Airlines in mind, it excels in this arena. The compact bag sits at 18 inches by 13 inches by 6.3 inches which fits within the guidelines of even the strictest commercial airlines, plus, it’s incredibly lightweight and packs up tightly when not in use. With durable straps, a waterproof exterior, and an overall convenient design, this bag is the perfect personal item for any trips you may have planned this summer.

Matein Carry-on Backpack

Keeping your hands free while traveling can make the entire experience significantly easier, and this roomy Matein backpack will help you do just that — and it’s even on sale for just $34 right now. The exterior of this bag is made with water-resistant material that will keep your valuables safe and dry, while the extra large design opens like a suitcase with the capacity to fit up to five days of clothing and essentials within. It measures in at 19 inches by 13 inches by 6 inches, and even meets the parameters of airlines such as Easy Jet, Spirit, and JetBlue. A ventilated back panel remains cool, comfy, and supportive, plus, it comes in nine gorgeous colors to add a pop of personality to your adventures.

Rockland Melrose Upright Wheeled Underseater Luggage

Rockland has created no shortage of impressively spacious and durable suitcases for any type of trip you may be preparing for, but if it's a portable personal item that you’re seeking, this compact underseater is guaranteed to exceed your expectations. Now on sale for a whopping 67 percent off, this bold and petite bag will easily slide under the airplane seat with room to spare, all while keeping your carry-on essentials safe. Featuring two wheels at its base for smooth transport, this suitcase is also built with a convenient telescoping handle that can be tucked back into the top of the bag when not in use. Two mesh side pockets have ample space to hold onto a water bottle while keeping your hands largely free, and it's roomy enough to carry everything you need for a multiple-day trip.

Etronik Travel Duffel Bag

This best-selling duffel bag is a traveler-favorite at Amazon, which is exactly why you’ll want to snatch it up while it’s on sale for an impressive 42 percent off for a limited time. Featuring an incredibly roomy primary pocket that’s easy to access and holds a stunning volume of items, this tote is a top-notch personal item for longer trips, and it even features a range of genius details that set it apart from the rest. A separate, zippered shoe compartment at the base of the bag ensures that your clean laundry is never marred by the dirty soles of your favorite sandals, and an additional waterproof, PVC-lined pocket is practically essential for the summer months if you’re headed to the lake or the pool. It’s well-made, reliable, and when you’re not traveling, it even works double-duty as a handy gym bag. 

Coofay Carry-on Backpack

This genius backpack is a dream come true for travel — all thanks to a roomy interior, well-padded yet breathable shoulder straps, and a hidden shoe compartment. If you’re looking to maximize your organizational capacity, you’ll be happy to find that this bag is complete with a wide assortment of pockets to keep your essentials easily accessible while you’re on the go, plus, while the main pocket is large, the bag itself is still compact enough to fit underneath the airplane seat. Whether you’re wearing it hiking, sightseeing, or for a long day at the airport, this $31 bag is a top-notch companion.

Dreubea Women’s Soft Faux Leather Tote

Some people are partial to traveling with a sizable purse that can be used for multiple purposes throughout the trip, so if this sounds like you, the Dreubea Faux Leather Tote will be a worthwhile addition to your baggage collection while it’s on sale for a mere $15. Secured at the top with a simple snap closure, this no-frills bag functions as both a personal item and a stylish purse — either way, it’s sure to elevate any outfit it's worn with. The spacious interior is well-suited for holding your electronics, toiletries, and other items you may want to keep easily accessible during air travel, and it’s even small enough to tuck under the airplane seat with plenty of legroom to spare. With nearly 39,000 five-star ratings from happy customers speaking to its value and quality, you’ll be in good hands with this sleek bag this summer.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Lightweight Underseat Carry-on Travel Tote

Travelpro luggage is largely well-regarded for its impressive quality and functionality, and this underseat carry-on is no exception. The thoughtfully made lightweight bag is designed with an accessible top-open pocket that offers ample space for clothing, electronics, and everything in between, while smooth zippers and a water- and stain-resistant exterior are the icing on top of the cake. It comes fitted with a removable and padded shoulder strap for comfortable travel days, while a sleeve at the back of the bag also allows for easy stacking atop your rolling bags during longer trips. Best of all, the ‘Amazon’s Choice’ personal item is currently on sale for just $85.

Light Flight Travel Backpack for Women

If you have any work trips on the horizon this summer, you’ll be happy to have a reliable, durable, and easy-to-carry personal item at the ready — and the Light Flight Travel Backpack is all that and more. The main pocket offers several organizational compartments for your laptop and other items that need to be stored with additional padding, and it even boasts anti-theft zippers to keep your belongings safe when you’re spending time in the airport or walking through an unfamiliar city. The accompanying USB charging port is compatible with your favorite portable charger to keep you on the grid without turning to the airport outlets for assistance, and on top of it all, this bag is currently on sale for just $40.

Bagsmart Weekender Overnight Bag

Sometimes a simple duffel is all you need to make traveling a breeze, so kick your summer off on the right foot with this packable Bagsmart tote that’s now double-discounted to a mere $28 thanks to an on-site coupon. The beauty of this bag is that it’s supremely compact and can be stuffed into a larger suitcase when not in use, while an anti-theft zipper, a padded (and removable) shoulder strap, and a convenient elasticized water bottle pocket all add to the handiness of this unassuming bag. It’s large enough to fit all the staple items you’ll want to keep within your personal item, plus, it simply tucks under the airplane seat thanks to its malleable and compact form.

Redcamp Foldable Travel Bag

Water repellent, incredibly durable, and impressively spacious, this foldable duffel is not only an excellent personal item, but also a great asset to tuck into your larger suitcase to use if you do some shopping at your destination and are traveling back with more than you arrived with. Mesh side pockets provide easy-access storage for snacks and even a water bottle, and a convenient two-way zipper ensures that you’ll have no trouble quickly snagging whatever you need from inside your bag (even if you’re in a hurry). At just $20, this duffel proves that you don’t need to break the bank to score a high-quality personal item for all of your most exciting adventures.

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Hop aboard the Kingston fast ferry for a quick day trip from Seattle

Once Kitsap Transit’s fast ferry to Kingston begins its 40-minute scoot across the Puget Sound, deckhand Coco Murphy usually has time to answer visiting passengers’ questions. Chances are there will be only a dozen or so passengers on board, compared to 150-200 people riding in the opposite direction.

Kitsap Transit launched the fast ferry in late 2018 as a commuter service for Kingston-area residents. Nearly six years later, comparatively few people take advantage of the “reverse commute” — sailing from downtown Seattle to Kingston in the morning and returning in the late afternoon or evening.

The Kingston fast ferry typically sails only on weekdays, but with Saturday service running through September, more Seattleites will no doubt discover the delights of a day trip on a sunny day. 

“It’s a nice opportunity for people in Seattle to check out Kingston,” says Murphy, who often recommends visiting local parks and grabbing a bite at the Saucy Sailor. (More on those below.)

With views of Mount Rainier and Mount Baker, the cruise is a budget-friendly way (fares are $10 westbound, departing from Seattle, and $2 eastbound, departing from Kingston) to explore a walkable waterside town where small business owners are trying out new ideas post-pandemic.

From breweries and boutiques to beachy walking trails, there’s plenty to see in Kingston after your fast ferry ride from downtown Seattle. Here are our recommendations for where to visit.

My best advice: Go Thursday-Saturday when most businesses are open. Catch an early ferry, and be mindful of return times if you want to stay for happy hour or dinner.

Bakeries and books

It’s hard to resist not stopping for a bag of miniature doughnuts made fresh in the morning, and sold through a window at Aviator Coffees & Teas next to the ferry terminal.

Everything to do and see in Kingston is within a short walk of the dock, so grab some treats and a coffee to-go while walking north along State Highway 104 toward a cluster of sit-down cafes and restaurants.

If breakfast or lunch is on the agenda, find a small strip mall housing two bookstores, a hardware store and the Borrowed Kitchen Bakery . Owners Lacey and Kory Anders first started selling baked goods at the Poulsbo Farmers Market in 2010. Today, they work out of a full kitchen where diners can smell the bread baking and settle in at a window table with a savory croissant or lemon blueberry scone.

Next door is Saltwater Bookshop , one of a few new businesses that opened post-pandemic. Owner Madison Duckworth partnered with baker Lacey Anders to open the shop last year after selling cookbooks in the Borrowed Kitchen.

Nestled among shelves stocked with titles by Northwest authors, cookbooks and a large selection of children’s books are stuffed chairs for browsing or book club gatherings.

All the titles are new, part of an agreement with the landlord to leave used books to the Kingston Bookery a few doors down where shelves bend under the weight of hundreds of titles the owner takes in trade for credit. 

Shop houses

Colorfully painted, restored historic homes house shops dedicated to gourmet chocolates, pottery, jewelry, house plants and vintage treasures.

Horticulturist and jewelry artist Anja McElvaney works with her partner Matthew Schaffer, a woodworker, inside a century-old craftsman-style house where they opened Havencraft last October. House plants spill out onto the front porch while inside rooms are filled with handmade soaps, local pottery and earrings made from poppy pods grown and painted by McElvaney.

A few doors down, in an aqua blue cottage built in the 1930s, Methia Gordon runs Sweet Life Cakery .

Inspired by “Chocolat,” a romantic comedy-drama about a woman who opens an unusual chocolate shop in a small French town, Gordon invites visitors to sit on her sunny enclosed porch to sip tea and sample a confection called “Sweet Bliss,” two layers of chocolate cake filled with whipped cream and enrobed in a chocolate glaze.

Hikes, a beachside stroll and bites

Take a beach walk along Saltair Beach Park near the ferry dock when the tide is out, or hike up the hill on Ohio Avenue to A Quiet Place Park , nine acres of walking trails through second-growth forests, named and donated to Kitsap County by Naomi M. Libby Elvins in 1993.

Keep an eye out around town for Kingston’s “Big Chairs,” giant Adirondack-style seats painted in bright colors. A local businessman came up with the concept to promote Kingston as a place to relax.

The Port of Kingston’s Mike Wallace Park at the marina and the port’s Kiwanis Park near the ferry dock offer walking paths, benches and a shaded gazebo for picnicking.

From there, put together a sunset meal from a clutch of pandemic survivor walk-ups offering takeout from around the world. 

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Daphne White greets customers from a sidewalk window at the Saucy Sailor , which opened May 2023. She arrives in the early morning to prepare British comfort food, such as bangers and mash and cottage pie, in a 230-square-foot kitchen.

Next door is J’aime les Crepes with sidewalk tables for enjoying sweet or savory French-style crepes. Around the corner, Argensol Kitchen bakes traditional Argentine empanadas filled with creamed corn, butternut squash and spinach and cheese.

The last weekday departure to Seattle is at 5:55 p.m. Saturday departures are at 7:05 p.m., 8:45 p.m. and 10:25 p.m., making it easier for visitors to stick around for happy hour at friendly Downpour Brewing in downtown Kingston or wine, cheese and live jazz at the cozy Cellar Cat closer to the ferry terminal.

Kingston Fast Ferry information : See kitsaptransit.com/service/fast-ferry/kingston-fast-ferry for schedules and fares. Ferries leave from downtown Seattle’s Pier 50. Crossing time is 40 minutes. Pay by ORCA card, paper ticket or exact cash.

The opinions expressed in reader comments are those of the author only and do not reflect the opinions of The Seattle Times.