Gagarin Capsule Hotel

In a quiet, cozy part of the city, with nice staff and really tasty, filling breakfasts. Very good value for the quality.

The breakfast was generous and varied, a lovely way to start the day. We were warmly welcomed when we arrived, and they were flexible with our schedules. The hotel is comfortable, especially the thoughtfully designed individual cabins, and towels are provided.

Even when it’s nearly always full, it still feels neat and clean, and you don’t really notice the crowds. The rooms aren’t soundproof, but the atmosphere, staff, and location were all great. They have the facilities you need in-house, with a restaurant right downstairs and a grocery store just a few steps away. The location is perfect.

I liked this hostel enough to return after visiting Astana and other places. It’s not near any landmarks, but that didn’t bother me since the places I wanted close by were nearby. The metro is almost underneath the hostel, and the #19 bus to the bus terminal passes by. There are lots of cafes and restaurants within walking distance. I especially liked Seventy, with two branches less than five minutes away, and Hopers Craft Beer bar just up the street. The beds were very comfortable, though the room got a bit warm with the door shut. There’s plenty of space, plus a small table and chairs if you need a desk. They provide tea, coffee, and vouchers for breakfast downstairs in the restaurant. I have to admit I didn’t like the breakfast, everything was cold. Laundry is free, but slow, and they may take your clothes out if they need the machines. One problem was the thumb recognition on the bedroom doors. It wasn’t reliable: it didn’t recognize me on my second night, though it did when I came back. I was away for 10 days, and they stored my bag for me. Great service. It can get pricey when it fills up.