Retro Bishkek Tours

Private city tours in a vintage Zhiguli—Soviet architecture, Communist history, Experienced English Speaking Guides 

Step back into the Soviet era and see Bishkek the way millions of citizens once did—through the window of a classic Zhiguli (Now rebranded as LADA in Russia).

Bishkek is one of the rare post-Soviet capitals that has preserved a striking amount of its architectural heritage: monumental mosaics, statues of Lenin, and modernist buildings that still define the skyline. To truly immerse yourself in this history, spend three hours in the shoes of the everyday proletariat—cruising the city in the USSR’s most iconic car.

Roll the windows down by hand. Hear the carburettor cough to life. No luxuries, no fuel injection—just simple, mechanical engineering. Even the fuel–air mix is adjusted with a dashboard knob. It’s charming, stubborn, unforgettable—the best and worst car ever made, all at once. While others coveted Western 4x4s, the people of the Soviet Union drove the state-issued Zhiguli.

Our curated route connects Bishkek’s surviving Soviet landmarks and neighbourhoods, with plenty of stops for photos and stories. It’s a moving time capsule and a brilliant way to understand the city’s past—and how it shaped the Bishkek you see today.

What you’ll experience

• Photoshoot in Kyrgyz and Soviet Military Clothes with the Zhiguli and iconic statues

• Statues and symbols of the era

• Modernist/Brutalist architecture

• Authentic ride in a classic Zhiguli, exactly as it was: manual windows, analogue gauges, and that unmistakable engine note

• English Speaking guide  telling about the cities soviet history

• Short walks at each stop — not just drive-bys 

• (Optional) Guided  Tour of the  National Museum  20$

• (Optional) Cold beers and  refreshments  in the  Zhiguli
  
  

Duration: ~3 hours

Good to know: This is a vintage vehicle experience—simple, mechanical, and delightfully old-school. Dress for the weather and expect lots of photo stops. 

Meeting Point/Pick Up

The meeting place will be at the car park to the Ala-Too square at the intersection between Chuy Ave. and Razakov St. (Opposite Imperia Pizza)

If you would like to be picked up at your hotel or any location close to the city centre please let us know in advance

Prices & What’s Included 

Included with every tour

Private Zhiguli 2106 with local English Speaking driver‑guide

Hotel pickup/drop‑off in central Bishkek

Bottled water in the car

Flexible photo stops

Cost

3 Hour Tour- 85$

Custom Hire — 30$ /hour (min. 2 hrs)

Payment
Book a slot and pay online with the portal below or contact us directly to organise a tour to pay in cash (KGS or USD)

Contact Us

Tell us your date, start time, group size (max 3), and preferred tour. We’ll reply fast with confirmation and pickup details.

WhatsApp: +996 706 307 654

Email: retrobishkektours@gmail.com

Instagram: @retrobishkektours

FAQs 

Q: How many people fit in the car?
A: Up to three adult passengers comfortably.

Q: Where do you pick up?
A: Any central Bishkek hotel, café, or landmark

Q: Can we stop for photos?
A: Absolutely—that’s half the fun. We know the angles.

Q: What if it rains or snows?
A: Tours run year‑round. We adjust stops and add cozy tea breaks.

Q: Do you run private custom routes?
A: Yes—by the hour. Great for content days and special occasions.

Q: Which languages do you speak?
A: English, Kyrgyz, and Russian.

Q: Is the car safe?
A: Yes—fully maintained, insured, and driven conservatively.

Q: How do I pay?
A: Cash (KGS. USD), card, or online prepayment link.

Q: What’s your cancellation policy?
A: Free cancellation up to 48 hours before your start time; 50% within 24 hours; no‑show charged in full.