How to get to Kostanay

Located in the northern part of Kazakhstan, Kostanay is a significant administrative and cultural centre of the region, attracting guests with its peaceful pace of life. If you are planning to visit this city, you will be pleased to know that transport links here are excellently developed. When deciding how to get to Kostanay, travellers can choose between a quick flight, a journey by railway, or travelling by bus and car.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the region is by air. The city is served by the international Kostanay Airport (KSN), which receives flights from major cities within the country and some international destinations. The airport is located close to residential areas, so the transfer to your hotel after landing will not take much time.

If direct tickets are unavailable, it is worth considering flying to neighbouring cities located across the border. The nearest alternative is Chelyabinsk, situated approximately 260 kilometres from the final destination. Travellers also sometimes plan their logistics through Kurgan or Magnitogorsk, arranging subsequent travel by ground transport.

For those who prefer ground transport, a train journey is an excellent choice. The city has a railway station receiving trains from various corners of the republic. Regular connections are established with major population centres, including Astana and Almaty, allowing tourists to easily plan their route without the need for complicated transfers.

Travelling by rail offers the opportunity to appreciate the scale of the steppe landscapes characteristic of this region. The station is located quite conveniently relative to the city infrastructure: upon arrival, travellers can quickly reach the centre or their hotel via public transport or taxi.

Bus services connect the city with neighbouring Russian regions, making the trip accessible and scenic. The most popular route runs from Chelyabinsk: comfortable buses cover the distance of about 350 kilometres in an average of 5–6 hours, taking border crossing into account. Direct bus services from Kurgan also run regularly; from there, the journey takes approximately the same amount of time, allowing passengers to observe the changing landscapes outside the window.

For travellers departing from the Southern Urals, a convenient option would be a trip through Magnitogorsk. This route, spanning about 400 kilometres, takes around 6–7 hours, allowing you to arrive at your destination without overnight travel. When choosing a bus as your transport, it is worth allocating a little extra time for customs control at the checkpoints.

Travelling by private vehicle offers freedom of movement and allows you to enjoy the picturesque steppe scenery along the way. It is most convenient to drive from Chelyabinsk: the distance of 320 kilometres can be covered in approximately 4.5 hours. No less comfortable is the route from Kurgan, from where the drive of about 313 kilometres will take around 4 hours.

The drive from Magnitogorsk will require slightly more time—about 5 hours to cover 396 kilometres. For those who do not wish to drive, an intercity taxi is an excellent alternative: drivers often pick up fellow travellers, making the trip more economical. When planning your schedule, be sure to include a buffer for border crossing, which can take from half an hour to several hours depending on the season and time of day.

Preparing for a trip to Kostanay will help make your journey as comfortable as possible and avoid minor inconveniences. This cosy city in the north of Kazakhstan is distinguished by its hospitality, but has its own climatic and everyday features that are worth knowing in advance.

1. Seasonal clothing. The climate here is sharply continental, so your wardrobe needs to be chosen carefully. In winter (from November to March), frosts down to -30°C and strong steppe winds are not uncommon—thermal underwear, a windproof down jacket, and a warm hat are mandatory. Summer can be hot and dry, so light natural fabrics are suitable, but bring a windbreaker for cool evenings.
2. Transport and taxis. Public transport consists of buses with routes covering the entire city. However, the most convenient way for a tourist to get around remains the taxi. Prices here are quite reasonable, and popular mobile apps (such as Yandex Go or inDrive) work reliably, saving you the need to negotiate with private drivers.
3. Finances and payment. The national currency is the Tenge. Shopping malls, restaurants, and supermarkets universally accept bank cards and contactless payments. Cash will be useful mainly for purchases at markets, in small kiosks, or for paying bus fares. Exchange offices are available in the city centre and at banks.
4. Health and water. Drinking tap water is not recommended; it is better to buy bottled water in shops. The pharmacy network is well developed, with many outlets operating around the clock. In summer, if heading for a walk by the Tobol River, do not forget repellents for mosquitoes and gnats—there can be quite a few near the water.
5. Language and communication. The Russian language is widely used in everyday life; it is understood and spoken by almost all residents of the city. Knowledge of English may be useful in large hotels, but one should not rely on it on the street. Learning a few words of greeting in the Kazakh language will certainly earn you the respect and goodwill of the locals.
6. Local etiquette. In Kazakhstan, elders are treated with great respect—please give up your seat on transport and be polite. Upon entering a home, it is customary to remove one's shoes. Men traditionally exchange handshakes when meeting.
7. What to avoid. Do not photograph strategic objects or people without their permission—this is a rule of good manners. Also, strictly avoid consuming alcohol in public places (streets, parks), as this is prohibited by law and subject to fines.
8. Tasty souvenirs. Kostanay is famous for its confectionery factory. Be sure to buy local sweets or biscuits—these are excellent and affordable gifts for friends, considered one of the unofficial symbols of the city.

Following these simple recommendations will allow you to focus on exploring the sights and relaxing without being distracted by domestic difficulties. Kostanay is a calm and friendly city where the right attitude and respect for local traditions guarantee pleasant impressions from your trip.