Top 6 destinations this summer: where Kazakhstanis can fly direct

Tengrinews.kz – Summer is traditionally the peak travel season, prompting airlines to increase flights to popular tourist destinations. This year, Air Astana has not only resumed its seasonal routes but also launched new ones. Here is our guide on where Kazakhstanis can fly this summer and what to do in the most sought-after locations.

Cyprus: the long-awaited season premiere

The main highlight this summer is the launch of direct flights to sunny Larnaca, Cyprus. This destination is available to residents of both the capital and Almaty.

• Almaty - Larnaca: Flights operate twice a week, on Thursdays and Sundays.
• Astana - Larnaca: Departures are also twice weekly, on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Larnaca attracts visitors with its versatility. It is home to the famous Finikoudes Beach with its date palm promenade, the ancient Church of Saint Lazarus, and the picturesque Salt Lake, where flamingos gather in winter. It serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the entire island. Travelers should note that, unlike the airline's other summer destinations, Kazakhstanis require a visa for Cyprus. Visa applications typically take 5 to 10 working days to process.

Vietnam: Asian beaches and exotic getaways

For those craving Asian flavor, the airline offers two premier resorts in Vietnam: Nha Trang (flights operate to Cam Ranh International Airport) and Da Nang.

• Almaty - Nha Trang (Cam Ranh): 4 flights per week.
• Astana - Nha Trang (Cam Ranh): 3 flights per week.

Nha Trang is considered the beach capital of Vietnam, drawing visitors with its long sandy shores, therapeutic mud springs, and vibrant nightlife. Be sure to visit the ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers and the massive amusement park on Hon Tre Island.

• Almaty - Da Nang: 3 flights per week.
• Astana - Da Nang: 2 flights per week.

Da Nang is a more tranquil, modern, and photogenic resort. It is home to the famous Marble Mountains and the iconic Golden Bridge, "held up" by two giant stone hands. My Khe Beach in Da Nang regularly ranks among the best beaches in the world.

Montenegro: A Visa-Free European Fairytale

The Balkans continue to win the hearts of Kazakhstanis thanks to an incredible blend of monumental mountains, the Adriatic Sea, and medieval architecture. Visa-free flights to Podgorica are available from two major cities.

• Almaty - Podgorica: 3 flights per week.
• Astana - Podgorica: 2 flights per week.

From Podgorica, travelers usually head straight to the coast—to Budva, Kotor, or Ulcinj. The Bay of Kotor, which resembles a Norwegian fjord in southern latitudes, is a must-visit. Wandering the narrow streets of old towns and dining on fresh seafood will make this vacation unforgettable.

Turkey: proven classics at maximum capacity

Turkey remains the most popular choice for family all-inclusive holidays and beach relaxation. This season, Air Astana is offering an unprecedented number of flights:

• Almaty - Antalya: 14 flights per week (twice daily);
• Astana - Antalya: 11 flights per week.

The Antalya coast delights with warm waters, water parks, and world-class service. If you tire of the beach, you can visit the ancient city of Perge or the monumental Aspendos amphitheater. Other resort towns—Kemer, Belek, Side, and Alanya—are located nearby.

For fans of a more secluded, "European-style" boho retreat, the Aegean coast is open:

• Almaty - Bodrum: 3 flights per week;
• Astana - Bodrum: 2 flights per week.

Bodrum is characterized by whitewashed houses draped in flowers, a marina full of yachts, and high-energy nightclubs. Key sights include the majestic Castle of St. Peter and the ruins of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Georgia: hospitality, mountains, and the sea

The Georgian direction this summer is represented by three convenient routes.

Almaty - Batumi: From June 15 to 30, there are 4 flights per week, increasing to 5 flights per week starting in July.
Batumi is a subtropical paradise on the Black Sea coast, where modern skyscraper architecture sits alongside historic quarters. Tourists are drawn to the long Batumi Boulevard, the moving Ali and Nino statue, the vast Botanical Garden, and, of course, Georgian cuisine.

• Astana - Tbilisi: 4 flights per week.
• Atyrau - Tbilisi: 2 flights per week.

Tbilisi captivates with its soulful atmosphere. Strolls through the Old Town, a cable car ride to the Narikala Fortress, the sulfur baths of the Abanotubani district, and cozy Tbilisi courtyards inspire love at first sight.

UAE: summer shopping and futurism

Despite the hot weather, Dubai remains a popular destination thanks to massive summer sales and affordable prices at luxury hotels.

Air Astana is gradually increasing its presence on this route:

• Almaty - Dubai: June 20 to 30 – 7 flights; daily from July.
• Astana - Dubai: July 10 to 19 – 3 weekly flights; from July 20 – 4 weekly flights; daily from August.

The national carrier's extensive flight program makes it easy to find the perfect summer vacation scenario. Whether it is the exotic beaches of Vietnam, the European streets of Cyprus and Montenegro, hospitable Georgia, or time-tested Turkey, any destination can be reached via direct flight, making travel planning quick and effortless.