Ashgabat Travel Guide, Turkmenistan

Ashgabat is the capital and the largest city of Turkmenistan, a former republic of the Soviet Union. Ashgabat is a relatively new city, founded only in the 19th century, but it was founded on the site of an old Turkmen village with the same name, and it is surrounded by plenty of historical sites and other tourist attractions. The city is a fascinating mix of cultures: there are many elements of the people’s Turkic origin, coupled with a large dose of Soviet influence. Although Ashgabat is a modern city, you can still see people dressed in traditional garb, lively and colorful marketplaces which make up much of the city’s charm. This Ashgabat Travel Guide offers some useful information for tourists who are planning to visit this exciting city.

Ashgabat Travel Guide - Transport

Ashgabat International Airport is located at approximately 10 km from the city centre. This airport was built only about 10 years ago, so it is very modern, if not overly large. Several airlines from both Europe and Asia operate flights to and from Ashgabat. You can catch a cheap flight from Baku with Lufthansa, or from Tashkent with Uzbekistan Airways, but there are plenty of connections with major cities such as Moscow, Frankfurt, Istanbul or Beijing. If you are already in Turkmenistan, the easiest way to get to Ashgabat is by plane, because domestic flights are incredibly cheap. You can also get to the capital by bus or a shared taxi from virtually anywhere in the country. Bus tickets and taxi fares not expensive, but the journey can take rather long, seeing as Turkmenistan’s infrastructure is not very well developed yet. The best way to get around the city is by bus or taxi. Buses are quite modern and clean, but they are usually very crowded as well. Taxis, on the other hand, can be found aplenty throughout the city, and they are extremely cheap compared to taxis in Western Europe.

Ashgabat Travel Guide - Accommodation

Ak Altin Plaza Hotel is one of the most modern hotels in the city. It is located in the heart of the city centre, and it offers luxury amenities such as game rooms, indoor swimming pool, a gym and a restaurant. The hotel also houses a casino and a popular nightclub. Hotel Nissa, on Atabaeva Street is only five minutes from the War Memorial and the shopping district, and despite being a family owned hotel it is very cozy and modern. Hotel facilities include a Turkish sauna, gym, Jacuzzi and a swimming pool. The hotel’s restaurant serves great Italian food, and the bar is quite lively in the evening with both locals and tourists. If you’re looking for a truly luxurious hotel, this Ashgabat Travel Guide recommends Sheraton Grand Turkmen Hotel, an international hotel with excellent facilities and an exceptional restaurant where you can sample the traditional Turkmen cuisine.