Bishkek

Kyrgyzstan, Asia

Bishkek, the vibrant capital of Kyrgyzstan, blends Soviet history with rich local culture. Explore its lush parks, like Ala-Too Square and Oak Park, and dive into the bustling bazaars for authentic flavors. Don't miss the Ala Archa National Park, just a short drive away, for stunning mountain scenery. With a friendly local atmosphere, numerous cafes and art galleries, Bishkek is appealing for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

Other

Airport

Manas

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

11 Best Things to Do in Bishkek

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Ala Too Square

Central hub of Bishkek, perfect for people-watching.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Osh Bazaar

Vibrant market showcasing local culture and cuisine.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Tour Ala Archa National Park

Stunning nature reserve with hiking opportunities.

No booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the State Historical Museum

Insight into Kyrgyz history and culture.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through Panfilov Park

Relaxing park with monuments and a beautiful ambiance.

No booking required
6

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Admire the Ala-Too Flagpole

Tallest flagpole in Central Asia, a national symbol.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Bishkek's Art Museum

Local and international art exhibitions in a serene setting.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience local cuisine at a chaikhana

Traditional teahouse serving authentic Kyrgyz dishes.

No booking required
9

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Victory Square

Memorial park honoring those who fought in WWII.

No booking required
10

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Explore the local nightlife

Vibrant bars and clubs showcasing Bishkek's nightlife.

No booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a cultural show

Experience traditional music and dance performances.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-7 (#118 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Som

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Kyrgyz

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Beshbarmak

Boiled meat with pasta and broth (National dish)

Laghman

Noodles with meat and vegetables

Kuurdak

Fried meat with potatoes and onions

Manti

V

Dumplings filled with meat or vegetables

Samsa

V

Savory pastry filled with meat or vegetables

Phrases to learn

English

Kyrgyz

Hello

Salamatsyzby

(Sah-lah-maht-siz-bee)

Yes/No

Ooba / Jok

(Oh-bah / Jok)

Thank you

Rakhmat

(Rahk-maht)

Excuse me

KechirdiƱiz

(Ke-chir-dee-neez)

How much?

Kancha?

(Kahn-cha)