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15 Best Places to Visit in Iran

Iran might not seem like your usual tourist destination, and it’s certainly true that theocratic juntas, a fervor for all things nuclear, and tales of autocratic shahs from decades gone by don’t make for the most enticing of travel cocktails. But Iran isn’t like most Middle Eastern countries.

Millennia of rising and falling civilizations – the Persians, the Parthians, the Safavids – have all gone before the modern nation, and their glory and richness have done something to instill today’s country with a pride and stability that’s the envy of many neighbors (even if they won’t admit it). Today, that means Iran is hurtling headlong into the future whilst still clinging steadfastly to its dazzling past – it’s a curious dichotomy that really informs the whole place.

You can flit between boho coffee shops and avant-garde art galleries in Tehran, or seek out majestic madrassahs in cities like Esfahan and Yazd. You can carve the pistes at Dizin or trace the footsteps of Xerxes and Darius at Persepolis.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Iran :

Gilded with the riches of more kings and sultans and Muslim caliphs than you can shake a cobalt-blue ceramic pot from a Zagros Mountain village at, the glorious city of Esfahan is unquestionably one of the most beautiful in all of Iran.

Its heart is dominated by the colossal Naqsh-e Jahan Square; a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s ringed by ceramic-fronted mosques and gorgeous Safavid palaces.

Elsewhere and babbling fountains give way to tree-dotted avenues, legendary madrassahs pop up on the streets, and arabesque souks burst with multi-coloured stacks of spices and tassel-fringed carpets from the east.

In short: Esfahan is the Iran you really have to see.

Eulogized and eulogized over and over again by romantic poets and travelers, and revered as the birthplace of the great Persian wordsmiths Hafez and Sa’di, Shiraz is a city steeped in heritage and culture.

Visitors will be able to spot the great tombs of those writers nestled between the palm-dotted, flower-sprouting gardens of Afif abad and Eram, along with the intricate arabesque interiors of the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque and the 1,000-year-old Qor’an Gate.

Rather surprisingly, the town also lends its name to a popular strain of wine, and, despite the cascading vineyards of the Fars Province long since having dried up, it’s thought that some of the world’s earliest white tipples were produced here nearly seven millennia ago!

One’s thing’s for sure: Tehran certainly isn’t a looker like Shiraz or Esfahan.

Apart from the rugged wall of snow-tipped Alborz Mountains that rise like a phalanx on the northern edge of town, the place is largely dominated by concrete and packed with smog-creating traffic jams aplenty.

However, like it or loathe it, this sprawling metropolis is the epicentre of the country’s politics and economy, and that surely counts for something, right? Well, a lot actually.

Great monuments like the Azadi Tower have been raised here, while the glimmering wonders of the Treasury of the National Jewels and the mummified princes of the National Museum of Iran are just some of the awesome relics to see.

Add to that a clutch of stylish teahouses and coffee shops, frantic bazaars and youthful student energy, and Tehran really isn’t all that bad!

Perched nearly 3,000 meters up in the snowy heights of the Alborz Mountains, where the European Caucuses crash into the Asian ranges, the small hill station of Dizin has firmly established itself as one of Iran’s top winter sports destinations.

With a clutch of good groomed pistes ranging from moderate difficulty to challenging runs, and a selection of cableways and chairlifts that were first installed in the 1960s, the soaring resort is one of the top places to don the skis and salopettes here.

There are also some alpine-style hotels, and awesome views of the cone of massive Mount Damavand in the distance.

The adobe warren of the Yazd old town is like something out of Arabian Nights.

Here and there, turrets gilded in intricate geometric designs loft above the mosque domes; the scents of incense and mint tea twist and turn from the cafes.

Meanwhile, the middle of the city is dominated by mysterious Zoroastrian fire temples and the spiked minarets of the Shia hussainia that is the Amir Chakhmakh complex.

And then there are the souks, where dust devils twirl between the cotton and silk emporiums, and shisha pipes puff in the background.

Yep, it’s precisely the sort of place you’d expect to trace the footsteps of one Marco Polo!

6. Persepolis

Great kings by the name of Cyrus, Darius and Xerxes all set foot between the sun-scorched streets of Persepolis once upon a time, for it was here, amidst the arid erstwhile vineyards of Shiraz and the babbling Pulvar River, that the mighty Persian Empire made its home from the 5th century to the 3rd century BC. Today, only traces of this once feared power in the east remain, with a clutch of looming marble columns and a couple of stele all that’s left to mark the great compound out amongst the rising hills of Rahmet Mountain.

Travelers can immerse themselves in the history, and even see the tomb of the revered king Darius I.

With a history of more than 4,500 years, there’s evidence to show that Tabriz is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the entire world.

That deep past now reveals itself in the layers of architectural majesty the place is known for, at spots like the colossal Blue Mosque of 1465, which comes gutted with shimmering ceramics of a deep cobalt blue.

Another real must see is the sprawling Bazaar of Tabriz, which is known as one of the great trading outposts of the old Silk Road.

Today, the vaulted ceilings and alcoves of this ancient merchant centre still burst with shimmering gold jewellery and blood-red carpets, sweet-smelling Turkic pastries and oodles of spice from the east.

Mashhad is hallowed ground for many Iranians. It houses the revered tomb of the eighth Imam of Shia Islam: Ali al-Ridha (or Imam Reza). It’s a seriously holy place, and is appropriately marked by the colossal Imam Reza shrine, which sprawls over nearly 600,000 square meters in the middle of the city; a glimmering mass of gold-clad minarets that go over 30 meters into the ski and great domes inlayed with precious metal (it’s definitely one of the country’s most breath-taking pieces of architecture).

Away from that must-see and Mashhad also has clean streets and curious sculpture art, not to mention some saffron-infused curries that are sure to set the taste buds a-tingling!

For Iranians, Rasht represents the gateway to the Shomal – a region of verdant hills and high rainfall that’s really unlike anywhere else in the country.

The unique climactic conditions of the high ridges that surround the town are made possible by its enviable location on the edge of the Caspian Sea, which also happens to imbue it was an array of other curious attractions.

We’re talking about the USSR-themed relics relating to the Soviet sympathiser Mirza Kouchak, and the leafy European-style facades of the Shahrdari in the center.

However, it’s trips out to see the gorgeous Golestan National Park, where the misty forests house Persian leopards, that usually come up trumps!

Encompassed by the sweeping deserts of the Iranian south, the old trading outpost of Kerman still clings to the bustling mercantile character it has had since the days when major trading routes between Arabia and India passed this way.

Check out the sprawling bazaar in the heart of the city, where five spice mixes with chilli and coriander powder between the vaulted emporiums.

There are also earthy Turkic hamams to bathe in, and a warren of mud-brick streets to wander.

And once the city’s done and dusted, be sure to strap on the boots and go intrepid into the ochre-hued hills of greater Kerman Province.

Kashan sprouts from the deserts of northern Iran midway between Esfahan and the capital at Tehran.

An oasis town, it’s packed with blooming pockets of date palms and green gardens that are fed with babbling irrigation streams.

The buildings are distinctly adobe and brown though, except – of course – for the elegant mansions of the Tabatabaie Residence, the Ameri House and the domes of Aqabozorg.

These are remnants of the Qajari royals, who came here and raised magnificent residential structures in the 18th and 19th centuries.

There’s also a throbbing bazaar and beautiful views of the mountains on the horizon.

Just 19 kilometres south of Iran’s coast, in the sparkling waters of the Persian Gulf, more than one million people discover the island of Kish each year.

They come to wallow in a place that’s quite unlike its mother country in many ways; a place where huge casinos converge on the palm-dotted gardens of opulent resort hotels.

However, there are two other attractions that ensure a steady stream of visitors on Kish: shopping and beaches.

The first of these comes with the duty-free malls that ring the main town, and the latter comes in the form of sparkling white sands, coral reefs, and awesome SCUBA diving to boot.

13. Hamadan

Forged by the Medes and the Assyrians, the Persians and the Parthians, this once great city might not be the legendary metropolis it was in antiquity, but it still comes steeped in all the culture you’d expect of a place with so many thousands of years of history behind it.

It’s perhaps most famed as the home of the Tomb of Avicenna, which chronicles and honors the life of arguably the most totemic scientific thinker in the Islamic world.

And there are other awesome sights to see too, like the Ali Sadr Cave, which is the largest in-cave lake on the planet, and the inscriptions of the Ganjnameh, made by the ancient Persian kings Darius and Xerxes.

Qom is considered one of Iran’s most holy cities.

It’s packed with soaring minaret spires and the turquoise-hued domes of totemic mosques (don’t miss the uber-handsome Ahlulbayt Mosque). One of the country’s cultural and religious centers, it’s also got some acclaimed madrassahs and draws massive crowds of pilgrims throughout the year.

Most come to wonder at the filigrees and pay their respects at the Shrine of Fatima-al-Massumeh, which is the resting place of the sister of the eighth Imam of Shia Islam.

Ramsar sits neatly sandwiched between the rugged rises of the Alborz Mountains and the lapping waters of the Caspian Sea.

It’s a truly enviable location; one that imbues this town of neo-classical hotel fronts and palm-peppered avenues with a wealth of good beaches and some seriously jaw-dropping panoramas of the hills that rise to form the Caucasian chains of Azerbaijan to the north.

The place has long been one of the top seaside retreats for Iranian luminaries, and continues to draw with its bubbling hot springs and fabled healing waters.

15 Best Places to Visit in Iran:

Top Things to Do in Iran

Places to visit in iran, explore popular experiences, popular cities in iran.

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• 8 Unbelievable Places To Visit In Iran To Experience Its True Culture

23 Mar 2023

Famous for its magnificent architecture and warm hospitality of the locals, Iran is known to be one of the friendliest countries. The country speaks of ancient civilisations and glorious days of the past. With lovely gardens and thriving bazaars, it is one of those countries in the Middle East that should be on every traveler’s list. Listed here are the best places to visit in Iran . Have a look.

8 Best Places To Visit In Iran

Iran has some of the most beautiful cities to explore with each of them flaunting their architectural marvels and bazaars selling a speciality good. Read on to know the top places to visit in Iran .

One of the top places to visit in Iran , Tehran is a busy metropolis set against the Alborz mountains. This capital city offers one with the present or modern-day Iran. Popular as a tourist destination, the city features both historical monuments as well as the dazzling skyline making it a melting pot of both the ancient and the present. There are a number of museums and palaces for one to explore and a hip cafe scene to chill in the evenings. If you wish to explore places around the city, then two interesting places to take day trips are Tochal and Darband. Adorned with natural beauty they offer quite an escape from the busy city of Tehran.

Tourist Attractions: The Grand Bazaar, National Museum of Iran, Golestan Palace, Sa’dabad Complex Places to stay: Taj Mahal Hotel, Espinas Palace Hotel, Parsian Evin Hotel

Must Read: 8 Best Places To Visit In Haifa For A Perfect Middle Eastern Trip!

Rich in Azeri culture, Tabriz is known for its thriving bazaar and if you are looking for places for shopping in Iran, then this should definitely be on your list. Placed at the gates of paradise by the Bible, Tabriz has a fine historical heritage. With great transport facilities, the city is easily accessible and the pleasant weather adds to one’s wonderful experience of the city. The city is further known for its beautiful carpets and teahouse hammams. So, are you excited to explore this city in Iran?

Tourist Attractions: El Goli (Shah Goli), Blue Mosque, Bazaar of Tabriz, Azerbaijan Museum Places to stay: Ahrab Hotel, Tabriz Elgoli Pars Hotel, Shahryar International Hotel

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A living museum of traditional culture, Esfahan is one of the top tourist destinations in Iran. The old Islamic buildings along with the Persian gardens give this city a beautiful appeal. The picture-postcard bridges are the highlight of this place in Iran. Imam Mosque and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque are the biggest attractions along with the historic bazaar which brings visitors to this gem of a city. Do not forget to buy some local handicrafts while in the city.

Tourist Attractions: Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Imam (Shah) Mosque, Ali Qapu Palace, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque Places to stay: Abbasi Hotel, Iran Hotel, Piroozy Hotel, Parsian Kowsar Hotel

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Once the Iranian capital, Shiraz is known for poetry and wine. It was also famous for its vineyards during the earlier days. If you are a connoisseur of either, you’d love to spend time here. Housing major pilgrimage sites for the Iranians, the city also has lovely gardens and beautiful mosques. A city full of love, Shiraz should definitely be on your list if you are visiting Iran with your partner.

Tourist Attractions: Tomb of Hafez, Vakil Mosque, Vakil Bazaar, Nazar Garden Places to stay: Shiraz Grand Hotel, Zandiyeh Hotel, Karim Khan Hotel

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The list of places to visit in Iran is incomplete without the mention of the city of Mashhad. The second-largest city in the country and one of the holiest, Mashhad is a city worth visiting. Plan your holiday well because, during Muslim holidays, the city is completely booked months in advance while during other times one can get great deals here! Also, if you are in town, do check out the carpets and saffron in the markets here. Mashhad is known to have the best of them!

Tourist Attractions: Imam Reza Shrine, Baba Ghodrat Tourist Complex, Golden Arch Places to stay: Sinoor Hotel, Ghasr Talaee Hotel, Javad Hotel

Suggested Read: 15 Best Things To Do In Oman For An Extravagant Holiday In This Middle East Gem

Walk along the winding lanes admiring the beauty of the mud-brick houses in the city of Yazd, one of the best places to visit in Iran . Often missed out as not being the touristy one, the city has a charm of its own. The old alleyways holding within themselves centuries of history have their own story to tell. A laid back city, Yazd invites everyone to explore the maze of its lanes.

Tourist Attractions: Amir Chakhmaq Complex, Jameh Mosque of Yazd, Dowlat Abad Garden, Yazd Atashkadeh Places to stay: Dad Hotel, Parsian Safaiyeh Hotel, Jungle Hotel

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Journeying from Tehran to Esfahan, Kashan is often overlooked but it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Iran . An architectural gem, the archaeological findings say that the city was founded some eight thousand years ago. The historical houses here make it one of the best tourist towns in Iran. Also, it has some of the best traditional hotels to enjoy Iranian hospitality. Excited to visit this city? Also, do get yourself some rose water from any of the stores in the bazaar!

Tourist Attractions: Fin Gardens, Kashan Bazaar, Historical houses: Borujerdi, Abbasi, and Tabatabaei Places to stay: Saraye Ameriha Boutique Hotel, Negin Traditional Hotel, Mahinestan Raheb Hotel

Popularly known as the city of bridges, Ahvaz is another one of the best places to visit in Iran . These bridges which have made the city famous are built over the river Karun. The city is rich in ethnic diversity and is known for its kind and warm-hearted people that are very hospitable. The city experiences mild and short winters which are very beautiful and also the best time to visit Ahvaz.

Tourist Attractions: Karun river, Pol-e Siah (Black Bridge), Pol-e Sefid (White Bridge), Ahvaz waterfall, Chahar Shir square Places to stay: Karun Hotel, Ahvaz Boostan Hotel

Further Read: 13 Cyprus Restaurants Offering The Best Of The Middle Eastern Cuisine

With lovely people and beautiful cities to explore, Iran is one of the best countries to visit in the Middle East. Book a trip to Iran with TravelTriangle and have a hasslefree trip. Add these places to visit in Iran to your list and have an awesome time exploring the ancient cities and the busy bazaars. If you get a chance buy saffron and rose water as souvenirs!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Iran

What are the top attractions in Iran?

Some of the top attractions that you must explore during your visit to Iran are Persepolis, Pasargadae, Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque, Naqsh-e-Rustam, Hafez Tomb, Eram Garden, Naqsh-e-Jahan Square, Sheik Lotfollah Mosque, Chehel Sotoun, Vank Cathedral, and Golestan Palace.

What is there to do outdoors in Iran?

Iran is one of the alluring countries in the world and includes several elegant attractions. Some of the best things you can do outdoors during your visit to Iran include exploring various historical museums and palaces, visiting the ancient mosques, and trying out the appetizing cuisines at various renowned restaurants.

Is it safe to visit Iran during covid times?

Iran is among few of the countries who have imposed strict guidelines regarding covid. A 2 weeks quarantine has been made mandatory and travelers should be fully vaccinated to visit Iran. Basic rules such as wearing a face mask and social distancing should be followed in a public place.

What is Iran known for?

Iran is known for its rich cultural heritage in various forms of art such as literature, architecture, and much more. Iran comprises several spectacular architectures in the form of royal palaces, ancient mosques, and historical museums.

What is there to do in Iran for 3 days?

Some of the best things to do in Iran for 3 days are exploring the ancient architecture, trying various appetizing cuisines of the Iranian culture, and strolling around the beautiful streets of Iran.

What can you do in Iran at night?

Iran has a vibrant nightlife and comprises various astonishing things that you could do at night. The best things to do at night include exploring the historical monuments, visiting renowned eateries and trying out various appetizing cuisines, and strolling around the streets of Iran.

When is the best time to visit Iran?

The best time to visit Iran is from March to May and September to November during the spring season and the fall. Make sure to plan your itinerary accordingly and visit Iran during these months for a hassle-free experience during your tour.

How many days are required to explore Iran?

If you are planning to visit Iran, then at least 4-5 days are required in order to explore the major tourist attractions, indulge in adventurous activities, and experience the appetizing cuisines around this beautiful city.

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30 Incredible Things To Do In Iran: Highlights For The First Time Visitor

12 feb 2024 02 oct 2019 | dan & john.

It’s hard to know where to start when we’re asked about our favourite Iran highlights. The history here is older than human memory, the landscapes even more ancient, and the people are among the kindest we’ve ever met.

Iran is liberally scattered with places of outstanding cultural, historical, and architectural heritage that are world-renowned and UNESCO-recognised.

Prepare to be delighted by a people that are generous of heart, incredibly warm and welcoming, curious, and rightly proud of their long and epic story.

Iran is a country you discover as much through its beautiful architecture and bustling bazaars as you do through its breathtaking landscapes. A place where tea can take a whole afternoon, and where your preconceptions will be continually challenged and rewritten.

It’s a tall order to try and limit the list of things to do in Iran to a single post, but we’ve made a start here with our round up of 30 places from north, south, central, and western Iran that left an indelible mark.

Whether you plan to travel independently as we did, or you’re searching for an Iran tour, we hope you find our line-up of favourite spots a useful starting point for your own journey of discovery in this ancient, unforgettable land.

Highlights of Tehran

Golestan palace: explore a residence fit for kings.

Golestan Palace, former palatial residence of the royal Qajar dynasty, is without doubt one of the top things to do in Tehran. Wandering through one of the capital’s oldest and most iconic precincts is a perfect introduction to Iranian arts and architecture.

Located in central Tehran, this beautiful complex lives up to its UNESCO World Heritage billing. Built and restored over the centuries following the Qajar family’s rise to power in the late 1700s, Golestan serves up richly carved archways, ornate tile work, delicate lattice windows, and Persian art galleries set amidst tranquil gardens.

The complex includes a number of halls and pavilions. For us though, the stand-outs were the opulent Takht-e Marmar marble throne terrace, the dazzling mirror hall (no photos allowed, alas), and simply wandering the peaceful gardens with their vibrant, colourful tiled walls.

The nearest metro station to Golestan Palace is Panzdah Khordad and entry cost us around IRR300,000 each. It does close at certain times of the year. Check opening times and prices at the  Golestan Palace website .

Imamzadeh Saleh Mosque – Mingle with Locals at this Popular Pilgrimage Site

It’s said that photogenic Imamzadeh Saleh is one of Tehran’s most attractive shrines. But it might just also be one of the friendliest.

We arrived here in time to watch the beautiful patterned turquoise tiles that cover the twin minarets and dome sparkling in the late afternoon sun, just as the marbled square in front of the mosque came to life with Tehrani families gathering to pray and meet friends.

With the imposing Alborz mountain range for a backdrop, this site is a real treat for photographers, especially as the sun sets and the mosque lights up. However it’s the friendly ambience of the complex that we’ll remember the most.

If you settle in to take in the surroundings, you’ll soon be a rewarded, as we were, with a trickle, and then a steady flow of lovely locals keen to say hello and find out what has drawn you to this beautiful sanctuary in the city’s north.

We highly recommend visiting Imamzadeh Saleh in the late afternoon and travelled there by metro to Tajrish station. Don’t miss the dazzling mirrored room. Ladies can borrow a chador at the entrance.

US Den of Espionage: Discover the Intrigue behind the former US Embassy

Anyone interested in US-Iran relations will be intrigued by a visit to the former US Embassy, site of the 1979-80 hostage crisis that lasted more than a year. While a visit might not be for everyone, the building, referred to locally as the US Den of Espionage, provides a window into what is claimed to be the apparatus of US spying activities in Iran.

For some, the free tour of the building might inspire memories of the film Argo. There’s an interesting collection of dated equipment, including encryption machines and shredders, while the colourful collection of murals will leave you in no uncertainty about sentiments surrounding the politics between the US and Iran.

As is often the case in Iran, our tour finished with tea and a chat with our hosts. As we found in many places on our Iran adventure, our discussions ranged broadly across life in Iran and outside, exploring our similarities and our differences.

Darvazeh Dowlat Metro Station is a short walk from the Den. Entry was around IRR200,000 each.

Azadi Tower – Modern Tribute to An Ancient Culture

If you’ve seen pics of Tehran, there’s a fairly strong chance you’ve seen Azadi Tower. It’s one of Iran’s most iconic landmarks, and it goes without saying that you can’t visit Iran without at least one selfie in front of its marble-clad span.

Azadi Tower is a modern ode to Iran’s ancient past: it was created to celebrate the 2,500th anniversary of the first Persian Empire. Impressive from afar, the monument is even more striking up close, with beautiful turquoise tiles decorating the spaces between the marble.

This was our very last stop before leaving Iran, and while we didn’t have a chance to go inside for a peek at the museum underground or to take in the view from the top, it was a perfect finale to our month in this amazing country.

Azadi Tower is quite close to the airport so it makes for an easy first or last stop when you tour Iran. There are a couple of metro stations nearby; Meyran-e Azadi is the closest. It’s free to see the Tower from the square but if you want to go inside, there’s a fee.

Tabiat Bridge: Perfect for Sunset Views Over Tehran

Nothing shows the contemporary face of Iran quite like Tabiat Bridge. Designed by a local architect Leila Araghian, the 270-metre structure is young, vibrant, and modern, just like many of those that wander its very cool spans.

Taking a sunset stroll along the bridge is a great way to get to know Iran’s capital. You’ll meet plenty of locals, both young and old, and have the opportunity to marvel at city skyline and mountain views, all the while being grateful you’re nowhere near the tangled Tehrani traffic jams below.

We’d highly recommend spending an hour or two here to catch the relaxed cosmopolitan vibe, before wandering back to Shahid Haqqani metro station via pretty Taleghani Park. On the way, be sure to keep an eye out for the prettily illuminated Khorramshahr Mosque, a particularly photogenic site once the sun goes down.

If you’re coming from Shahid Haqqani station, wander across Tabiat Bridge and through the collection of restaurants on the other side for a bite if the timing’s right. There’s a skate park down there too that’s worth a stop and a watch.

Northern Iran Highlights

Bazaar of tabriz – immerse in the world’s largest covered bazaar.

One of the absolute highlights of Iran, and another of the country’s many UNESCO sites, this thousand-year-old Silk Road bazaar is a joy to get lost in.

And get lost you will. With more than 5,500 shops and around seven kilometres of beautifully vaulted caravanserai, interconnected through a tangle of passageways, the Bazar-e Tabriz is the world’s largest covered marketplace. It’s also one of the oldest.

While it would probably take days to see the whole thing, we made do with wandering the colourful spice markets and taking in exquisite Persian carpets at the dedicated carpet trading section, the ‘mozaffareih’, with its beautiful patterned brick ceilings.

Tabriz Bazaar is in the heart of Tabriz in East Azrbaijan Province. It’s open from early till late every day but Friday. 

Bonus Food Highlight:  Keep an eye out near the entrance of Tabriz Bazaar for guys cooking up a local street food specialty called Yeralma Yumurta: it’s potato and egg mashed together with salt, pepper and butter and wrapped in lavosh. Sooooo good (and less than a dollar for a filling snack)!

Blue Mosque, Tabriz: Glimpse A Past Splendour

We can only imagine how dazzling the Blue Mosque of Tabriz must have been in its heyday, before an 18th century earthquake devastated the intricate blue majolica tilework that once covered the building inside and out.

While ongoing restoration is in evidence, nature’s best efforts haven’t managed to snuff out the light of this 550-year-old work of art.

The tilework that remains is beautiful, and the peaceful ambience, not to mention the striking symmetry of the portico surrounding the mosque, make this a highlight of visiting Tabriz and a key stop on any Iran itinerary.

The Blue Mosque is also called the Goy Mosque and it’s near the centre of Tabriz, about a 20-minute walk from Tabriz Bazaar. It’s open every day and cost us IRR150,000 each for entry. 

Kandovan – Wander A Village Of Cave Dwellings

If you’re staying in Tabriz for a couple of days, consider making the half-day trip to the quirky troglodyte village of Kandovan.

These strange cone houses in the foothills of Sahand, a sleeping volcano, are eroded remnants of violent eruptions in Sahand’s distant past. If you’ve been to Cappadoccia in Turkey, you’ll be familiar with the idea of chimney houses, but the similarities stop there and the two really can’t be compared.

Kandovan is definitely one of the more offbeat places to see in Iran. It’s intriguing though, and a wander through the streets is an opportunity to marvel at how people have managed to shape an ancient and otherworldly landscape of volcanic rock into a village of cozy homes complete with electricity and plumbing.

Unsurprisingly, Kandovan is a highly popular tourist destination so we made a point of timing our arrival for later in the day. While the tea houses in the new village below were closing for the day, we were able to enjoy a quiet meander without the masses, and were even invited to peek into the charming cave home of one family as we were passing by.

Kandovan is around 60km from Tabriz and took about an hour each way. We organised a taxi there and back through our accommodation, the cost of which included a couple of hours’ waiting time. There was also a car entry fee of IRR40,000 at the village.

Masuleh: Where Crossing The Street Takes On A Whole New Meaning

Even on a rainswept day on the edge of winter, the village of Masuleh in northwestern Iran is a captivating sight. For over a thousand years this chaotic, multi-layered tangle of clay covered houses has been hugging the misty slopes of the Alborz mountains.

It’s probably the kind of town where you really do need to get along with your neighbours, given that that one person’s roof is their neighbours’ front yard, while also doubling as a thoroughfare through the village.

Blissfully car free, Masuleh is a great place to take in the mountain air, enjoy unique architecture, or to just stop for tea with the friendly locals while taking in the views.

We’ve heard the town can get a little congested during the peak summer months, which is probably why many people recommend staying overnight to hike the surrounding mountains, or to just enjoy the quiet mountain ambience once the tourists leave. Masuleh is definitely on our list of Iran highlights requiring a return visit and a longer stay.

We visited Masuleh as part of a day trip from Rasht, also taking in Rudkhan Castle. We organised a taxi there and back through our accommodation.

Bonus Food Highlight:  If you have a chance, stop en route in Fuman and pick up some freshly baked Klucheh, a deliciously warming cookie filled with cinnamon and walnut. It’s found elsewhere in Iran but it’s a specialty here.

Qal’eh Rudkhan – Fortress In The Sky

Set aside the flat, parched Iranian desert landscapes you envisaged before your visit, because you might just find yourself thinking you’ve sidestepped into Europe as you hike into the chilly, lush green mountainscape surrounding Rudkhan Castle.

Guarding Iran’s Caspian Sea frontier against Arab invaders for more than a millennium, this haunting, well-preserved fortress is set high in the Alborz mountains. It remains an imposing sight today, with 1,500 metres of battlements and more than 40 towers.

On a wet day (and in winter) it’s a slippery hike up and down the mountain (Dan can attest to the fact after sliding right off the path and down a muddy slope), so be sure to wear decent footwear and take some time to enjoy the teahouses on the way.

Rudkhan Castle is about 90 minutes drive from Rasht. Enjoy a whole day exploring the area or combine it with a visit to Masuleh like we did. Entry to the trail was IRR150,000.

Central Iran Highlights

Naqsh-e jahan square, esfahan – a vast world heritage gathering place.

Nowhere is the majesty of Iran captured better than Esfahan. It’s already said by many to be the most beautiful city in all of Iran, and there are few spots in Esfahan more beautiful than Naqsh-e Jahan Square.

One of the largest public squares in the world (close to 90,000 square metres!), and home to some of the most ornate mosques and palaces in Iran, Naqsh-e Jahan is a focal point for life in Esfahan. It was a place we were repeatedly drawn to during our exploration of the city.

This is the place to embark on grand bazaar explorations, drink tea in magical tea houses (check out the quirky cool Azadegan Tea House off the square), marvel at breathtaking royal and religious architecture (see our separate entries below), and be regaled with the poetry of Hafez and Ferdowsi by enthusiastic young locals keen to share their culture and love of words.

Naqsh-e Jahan is beautiful during the day, but it’s even more stunning at night when the lights come on.

Random fact: The sport of polo originated in Persia some two thousand years ago. Keep an eye out for the marble goalposts marking Naqsh-e Jahan’s own early 17th-century royal polo field.

Jameh Mosque, Esfahan – An Ancient, Ever Changing Wonder

Reached via a meander through backstreets and the bustle of the Grand Bazaar, Iran’s oldest (and biggest) congregational mosque is a standout experience in a city packed with highlights.

Work started here in the 9th-century, and today Jameh Mosque is a World Heritage time capsule of architectural styles and dazzling geometric designs spanning more than 1,200 years.

We were captivated by the mosque’s tranquil hypostyle halls, elaborate brickwork (don’t miss the breathtaking Taj al-Molk dome), sublime light, and intricate tile work. This is a highlight of Esfahan and shouldn’t be missed.

Jameh Mosque is about two kilometres’ walk from Naqsh-e Jahan. It’s open every day but closed between 11am-1.15pm, and entry cost us IRR200,000 each.

Masjed-e Shah – Architectural Showcase & Peaceful Place Of Learning

Gracefully situated at the southern end of iconic Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Masjed-e Shah – the Shah Mosque – is yet another jewel in Esfahan’s crown and a must on any Iran tour.

Also known as the Royal or Imam mosque, this grand complex of intricate tiled mosaic passageways, niches, and vaulted chambers set around a large central courtyard and pool has been drawing visitors and pilgrims to Esfahan for more than 400 years.

While the 42-metre-high twin minarets and grand dome draw the eye the moment you enter the square, our own visit centred around appreciating the finer details, including the intricately designed entry portal, exquisite mihrab, beautifully crafted calligraphy, and the atmospheric main chamber.

Another real highlight for us was the opportunity to have a broad-ranging chat with a local mullah as part of the “friendly talks” program run by Madrasa Naseriyeh, a theological school located within the Masjed-e Shah complex.

Shah Mosque is open every day but closed between 11.30am-1pm, and Friday mornings. It cost us IRR200,000 each.

Masjed-e Sheikh Lotfollah – Sanctuary of the Sublime

Yet another structure vying for attention in Naqsh-e Jahan square is the 400-year-old Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque: a masterpiece in miniature, especially when the first and last light of day makes the golden dome glow.

You’ll feel the rising awe the moment you pass into the exquisite portal, entering a striking world of richly designed Safavid-era mosaics, finely carved decorative doorways, and sublime, shifting light.

If you’re anything like us, you’ll struggle to move on from the enchanting angled hallway, but when you eventually do, further reward awaits in the spectacularly tiled dome of the main prayer hall, with its beautiful latticed windows. Catch the light just right, and you’ll see the peacock at the dome’s heart, with its golden sunbeam tail. Photography is allowed, but be careful not to fall foul of the flash and tripod police; they’ll be watching.

Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque is open every day but closed between 12.30-2pm. The entrance fee when we visited was IRR200,000.

Chehel Sotoun, Esfahan – The Palace of 40 Columns

Built as a pleasure pavilion and reception hall using the Achaemenid-inspired columned porch style, Chehel Sotoun is reached via a terrace that perfectly bridges the Persian love of gardens and interior splendour.

In fact, the ambient grounds here have ensured the pavilion’s inclusion in the country’s collective World Heritage Persian Gardens listing.

While it may be slightly overshadowed by some of Esfahan’s better–known attractions, the palace, with its 20 ribbed wooden pillars rising to meet the beautiful inlay work of the wooden ceiling above, is well worth seeking out. There are vivid frescoes inside and, on the day we visited, a fabulously-bearded musician was plucking tunes among the columns on a traditional Persian tar.

Chehel Sotun means ‘40 pillars’, so if you’re wondering where the other 20 pillars are hiding, be sure to take a stroll around the long pool in front of the pavilion. If the waters are calm, you’ll see the pillars reflected, effectively doubling the number.

The pavilion is a ten-minute stroll west of Naqsh-e Jahan Square. It’s open every day and we paid an entry fee of IRR200,000 each.

Vank Cathedral – A Gilded, Frescoed Glory

With so many epic sights in Esfahan, it’s easy to understand how some visitors might not find their way to the Armenian quarter of Jolfa in the city’s south-west.

If time permits though, it’s absolutely worth making the stroll from the centre of Esfahan, across the striking Si O Seh Bridge over the Zayandeh River (see our separate entry below), to this pretty corner of the city.

Sixteen historic Armenian churches still stand in the quarter, the most important of which is the 350+ year old Vank Cathedral (the Church of St Joseph of Arimathea).

Approaching the modern-looking building (the outside was restored more recently), we were totally unprepared for what awaited inside. Not for the first time in Esfahan, we were completely mind-blown the moment we stepped through the doors. Every corner of wall and ceiling was covered in vivid, colourful paintings and gilded scenes from the Bible, a striking contrast alongside hand-painted tiles in the Iranian tradition.

The space inside Vank may be small; the impression it leaves is anything but.

Jolfa is also a great spot for people-watching in the evenings, so once you’ve extracted yourself from the churches, be sure to take a seat somewhere and watch the Armenian quarter come to life with young people gathering in the square and cafes to socialise. We also found the charming little Ani Café nearby, with excellent coffee and lovely staff.

Jolfa is around 4.5km from Naqsh-e Jahan Square and it took us around an hour to wander there. Vank Cathedral is open every day. Entry was IRR200,000 and we timed our arrival for late afternoon, and caught a beautiful sunset over the church.

Si O Seh, Esfahan – The Bridge of 33 Arches

Elegant yet sturdy and more than four centuries old, Si O Seh is Esfahan’s picturesque, 33-span bridge. It’s especially photogenic at night, and the perfect place to end a day exploring this ancient city in central Iran.

Stretching almost 300-metres across the Zayandeh River (mostly a dry riverbed, as the water is usually drawn out upstream before reaching Esfahan), the bridge is a magic spot to hang out and people-watch, as local families take in the cooler evening air and groups of teenagers and young adults hang out among the spans. Keep an ear out for people singing under the arches.

We spent more than an hour here, wandering the archways, chatting with friendly locals, and pretty much snapping the bridge from every conceivable angle.

Ghoortan Citadel – Ghost of the Past

It’s no mean feat to move on from Esfahan; there’s just so much to see. If anything can tempt you away though, let it be an adventure in the desert to the south-east, and a trip to the beautiful Iranian interior around Varzaneh.

If you’re taxi’ing to Varzaneh as we did, chances are you’ll have the opportunity to stop and visit the thousand-year-old mud-brick fortress of Ghoortan Citadel. It rises from the flat, dry landscape on the edge of the desert.

This is a haunting, profoundly ambient place. Ghoortan Citadel may be crumbling with age, but a handful of resilient families still live here. We found wandering the silent, ancient maze of mostly abandoned laneways, houses, and thick protective walls and towers to be a truly extraordinary experience.

Ghoortan Citadel is around an hour and a half by taxi from Esfahan. We arranged to include a visit to the citadel with our driver on our ride from Esfahan to Varzaneh.

Desert of Varzaneh: Watch Sun Set from the Crest of a Giant Dune

Watching the day wind down atop a mountain of sand, looking out over the sunburnt desert of Varzaneh, is quite literally a high point on many an Iran itinerary, and for good reason!

This is one of the country’s more accessible deserts, and a popular gathering spot for families and young people as the heat of the day ebbs away in the late afternoon.

The dunes, among the highest in Iran, rise up suddenly from the flat, baked plains. Hiking the dunes is tougher than it might look, but once you get to the top you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views as the waves of sand are transformed into a burnt orange sea with the dropping sun.

We stopped at this beautiful spot after a memorable afternoon exploring the ancient, parched landscape of this region, where human history stretches back some 5,000 years. Afterwards, back at the base of the dunes, we snacked on watermelon and sipped tea as twilight fell over the desert. Magic.

We arranged our Iran desert tour through our guesthouse in Varzaneh, as part of a half day exploration of the highlights of the area. Trips vary, however we included in ours a stop at the photogenic Varzaneh salt lake and flats, sunset over the desert, and a spot of stargazing under brilliant, starry skies.

Stay in the desert-edge town of Varzaneh To make the most of a visit to the desert and salt flats, consider staying a couple of nights in the small desert-edge town of Varzaneh. This is a very quiet, low-key town, but the people are warm and welcoming, and a simple stroll here rewards with memorable scenes, like beautiful red roses blooming in dry, cracked garden beds; and ladies crossing the town’s arched bridge at sunset in billowing white chadors. This is the only place in Iran where the white chador is worn. You’ll also see fine examples of the country’s famous pigeon towers here, both restored and crumbling with age. These circular towers were widely used to collect pigeon poo for use as a fertiliser in the parched landscape, before the advent of chemical fertiliser. They’re often beautifully decorated, eye-catching structures.

Yazd: City of Wind Towers

There’s plenty to like about the ancient desert city of Yazd, a destination recognised as World Heritage for its ancient and traditional adobe buildings, and clever underground water systems. For us though, Yazd is a standout for these things and more: it was here that we had the best Dizi in Iran.

Yazd has been welcoming Silk Road travellers for more than 1,500 years, and the sheer depth of history here is palpable as you walk the narrow laneways lined with earthen houses and shops.

This is a city to wander, to soak up the desert atmosphere, to get hopelessly lost in, to shed your city slicker worries, and immerse yourself completely in Persian history, culture and food.

There are plenty of highlights, but standouts include the Amir Chakhmaq Complex, with its beautiful archway symmetry; the Ateshkadeh Zoroastrian Fire Temple (Yazd was once a hub for the oldest monotheistic religion in the world); and the spectacular Jameh Mosque, with its soaring entryway, stunning tilework, and 48-metre-high minarets. We found the mosque’s ancient qanat open when we visited, deep underground down a steep staircase. We spent a while here, chatting with the very friendly locals.

Don’t Miss: Saheb A Zaman Zurkahneh This unique, offbeat Iranian experience was a surprise highlight for us during our Yazd stay. Housed in a 440-year-old water reservoir, the zurkaneh is effectively a gym where men carry out an ancient tradition of exercises in sync using wooden clubs of different sizes. There are strict rules and customs for participants, and the performance plays out to traditional music. If it sounds unusual, it is, but that’s exactly what makes it a must-see. The practice takes place each evening except Friday and entry cost us IRR200,000 each.

The perfect end to a day exploring Yazd is to find a rooftop late in the day (Check out the Art Café), drink some tea, enjoy the skyline dotted with tiled domes and wind catchers (very clever ancient systems that capture wind, cool it and send it around the home below), and generally just marvel at one of the world’s most ancient cities.

Then locate a Dizi house and eat your fill of this singular Iranian dish of lamb, potato and chickpea stew. This is a performance meal, not only in how it’s prepared and presented, but in how it’s eaten. Soooo good. Our fave spot in Yazd for Dizi, and other tasty local food, was Tormeh & Toranj.

Unsurprisingly, and perhaps like many other travellers for thousands of years – we found it very hard to leave this charming, ancient desert oasis.

We arranged through our guesthouse in Varzaneh to travel to Yazd by taxi, a journey of around two-and-a-half hours.

Kharanagh – Ancient Village Abandoned Not Forgotten

80 kilometres from Yazd, overlooking a peaceful scene of farms backed by dry, rugged mountains, is the captivating village of Kharanagh: totally ambient and, for all intents and purposes, totally abandoned.

Believed to have been settled by the Zoroastrians more than a thousand years ago, this intriguing town of winding passageways and mud brick houses is a treat to explore.

While there are plenty of signs the surrounding lands are actively farmed, we came across more animals than people on our exploration of the silent, crumbling town. Still, it wasn’t difficult to imagine a time when families filled the adobe rooms, the call to prayer rang out from the still-standing minaret, and life bustled within the narrow laneways.

As we parked up on a patchy rooftop and looked out over the ruins, we had the distinct feeling that, while ancient Kharanagh is slowly eroding away, it’s story will carry on long after it’s gone.

We visited Kharanagh on a daytrip from Yazd, taking in this site as well as the Zoroastrian Fire Temple at Chak Chak (see our entry below), and hulking Narin Castle in the city of Meybod. Travelling with two others, a taxi and driver for the day cost us around IRR 1.7 million, plus entry fees. Entry to Karanagh was IRR50,000 each.

Pir-e-Sabz (Chak Chak) Fire Temple – An Ancient Mountain Shrine

From the moment we started researching our Iran trip, we were intrigued by Zoroastrianism and the mysterious fire temples where this ancient Persian religion was practiced.

Yazd was a centre of Zoroastrianism (it still has a significant population of followers), and Chak Chak, a fire temple halfway up a sheer mountain, is an excellent place to get familiar with the world’s oldest monotheistic religion.

Legends swirl about this ancient place. One says the drops of spring water at Chak Chak are the mountain’s tears for the daughter of a Sassanid ruler, who was trapped here by the invading Arab army in the seventh century. Desperate, the princess prayed for help and the mountain opened up to offer her refuge.

The fire temple is located in a cavern at the top of more than 200 heart-pumping steps. Given its importance as a pilgrimage site, the temple itself is a surprisingly small and understated space centred around an eternal flame, and accessed through impressive bronze doors imprinted with the religion’s founder, Zoroaster.

The levels above and around the temple are rooms set aside for the thousands of pilgrims who make their way to the temple for a Zoroastrian festival in June each year (it’s closed to other visitors during the festival so check ahead if you’re travelling around this time).

For us, the visit was memorable for the simple, peaceful ambience of the fire temple and the rugged beauty of the surrounding landscape. Be sure to allow time to really take in the setting, and enjoy the stunning views from the high terraces.

We visited Chak Chak as part of a day trip from Yazd, also visiting Kharanagh (see our entry above) and the city of Meybod. Entry to Chak Chak was IRR50,000 each.

Southern Iran Highlights

Naqsh-e rustam – necropolis of legendary kings.

A journey into Southern Iran takes you deep into Persian history, to the ancient Achaemenid Empire and an age of celebrated Persian kings like Cyrus, Darius and Xerxes.

These are giants of human history, leaders that shaped the ancient world. They are, quite literally, the stuff of song and legend.

You can find this epic history carved into the cliff-face at Naqsh-e Rustam, the necropolis of Persia’s legendary kings Darius the Great, Xerxes the Great, Ataxerxes and Darius II.

We were rendered speechless as we stood facing these powerful and ancient mausoleums for four members of the dynasty that founded the first Persian Empire: their stories chiselled into the stone by real people in the distant past. For history buffs like us, travelling doesn’t get much better than this.

We incorporated our visit to Naqsh-e Rustam into our taxi ride from Yazd to Shiraz. Building it into our journey (which we shared with two others) was more time and cost effective for all of us, and meant we could dedicate more time the following day to exploring the ancient city of Persepolis. Entry to Naqsh-e Rustam was IRR 200,000 each.

Pasargadae – Monument to the Founder of the Persian Empire

Another of Iran’s impressive World Heritage sites, Pasargadae was once the capital of the Achaemenid Empire and lies on a large archaeological site around 90 minutes’ drive northeast of Shiraz.

If we’re honest, this highlight might be more for history nerds like us, since you need a fair amount of imagination (and energy) to bring the mostly ruined site to life as you wander the complex in the blazing desert sun.

For us, the stately tiered limestone tomb of Cyrus The Great, founder of the First Persian Empire, was the highlight of our visit, and provides a sense of the grandeur befitting the site. Cyrus, the second of his name, ruled from 559-530BC, conquering and expanding to create the world’s largest empire up to that point.

There’s some suggestion his mausoleum was restored in the year 324BC on the orders of Alexander the Great, who found the tomb already ransacked.

The rest of the site is made up of seemingly random ruins and stones which actually form up the floorplans of palaces, gardens and a citadel. There’s also an unusual tall building similar to one at Naqsh-e Rustam, evocatively called Solomon’s Prison. It was once thought to be a fire temple, among other things; no one’s really sure.

While it’s easy to visit Pasargadae and Naqsh-e Rustam along with Persepolis on a day trip from Shiraz, we decided to build in stops at Pasargadae and Naqsh-e Rustam on our journey from Yazd to Shiraz for the reasons outlined in our entry above. Entry to Pasargadae was IRR200,000 each.

Persepolis – Ancient City of Kings

Almost certainly one of our favourite places to visit in Iran (and one of the longest-standing entries on Dan’s lifetime bucket list of ancient places), the World Heritage site of Persepolis stands as a timeless testament to the powerful past of the Persian Empire, and the deep foundations of Iran’s present.

Started by Darius the Great in the 6th century BC, Persepolis was the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire. It thrived for nearly 200 years, until Alexander the Great turned up with his army in 330BC. After sampling the luxuries of the palaces, he looted and burnt them down. Not one of his ‘great’ moments.

Two millennia on though, and despite the scattered masonry and ruins, there’s still plenty to see here, starting at Xerxes’ epic Gate of All Nations, surely the inspiration for the Sphinx Gate in ‘The Neverending Story’!

Persepolis is an absorbing complex of columned palaces, halls and cliff-carved tombs. Keep an eye out for the details around the site, like the double-sided bull capitals on the columns (and the ground in places, where they offer serious perspective on their size).

The beautiful wall reliefs on the Apadana Staircase are a showstopper, offering intricate details on the cultures coming to Persepolis from all over the region at the time. They look like they were carved yesterday, thanks to centuries buried in the desert sand.

If you can, don’t miss the opportunity to be at Persepolis for sunset. Watching the sun drop beyond the site, just as it has for more than 2,500 years, was a highlight for us (our banner pic for this post was taken at sunset at the Gate of All Nations).

Definitely go with a guide to get the most out of your tour, and make sure you ask for extra time to wander at leisure, and seek out the exquisite detail that makes this one of the world’s must-see ancient sites.

Persepolis is around 50km northeast of Shiraz. Entry was IRR200,000 each. We organised our excellent guide and driver through Mr Persepolis –  email us for more info . For security reasons, backpacks aren’t usually  allowed in and there’s a security check at the entrance. To be on the safe side, we’ve heard smaller, single strap shoulder bags are usually ok but check with your guide before going.

Masjid Nasir ol-Molk – The Exquisite Pink Mosque of Shiraz

Probably one of the most photographed spots in all Iran, a visit to beautiful Nasir ol-Molk is equal parts wonder and exasperation, but should absolutely enjoy ‘must visit’ status on your Iran itinerary.

Every morning the ornately columned prayer hall of Shiraz’s Pink Mosque erupts into a riot of kaleidoscopic colour as the first light of day streams in through its stained glass windows.

Be there for opening and you may be rewarded with a few peaceful moments before the tour groups arrive, at which point photography etiquette disappears completely in a chaotic, oblivious swirl of people, all determined to capture the moment from every possible angle.

That’s the point we decided to find a spot out of the way at the side of the room and just enjoy the morning light dancing across the intricate painted tiles, carved pillars and beautiful hand-woven Persian carpets.

Be sure to wander to the other areas of the mosque too: the painted tilework in the archway opposite the prayer hall is delicate and beautiful.

Nasir ol-Molk is in the heart of Shiraz. Check the time of sunrise when you visit and the opening hours of the mosque. Entry was IRR 200,000 each.

Tomb of Hafez: A Love Letter To Iranian Poetry

Spend any time in Iran and you’ll quickly realise that poetry is a serious business here. It enjoys a central and time-honoured place in Iranian life and cultural identity.

While we may fall back on the snippets of Shakespeare we were forced to learn at school, the Iranians we met happily regaled us with beautiful verses from their favourite poets.

We’ve got fond memories of one young guy quoting us passages of Hafez – perhaps Iran’s most revered poet – in Esfahan’s main square, without any of the self-consciousness that might accompany such an act back home.

Hafez lived in Shiraz in the 14 th  century, and if you’re visiting the city, one of the best places to appreciate Iran’s love of poetry is at his resting place, the Tomb of Hafez. Families, couples and friends gather here in the pretty gardens, and you’ll find excerpts of his timeless poetry inscribed on the tomb and around the site.

“Even after all this time, the sun never says to the Earth, ‘you owe me.’ Look what happens with a love like that! It lights up the whole sky.” Hafez

We recommend visiting the tranquil gardens later in the day as the sun drops. Entry was IRR200,000 each.

Bishapur and Shapur Cave: Where Empires Collide

If ancient empires get your engines running like they do ours, and if you have a spare day in Shiraz, then consider a day trip to Bishapur, two hours to the northwest of Shiraz. The drive from Shiraz to Bishapur is a delight in itself, passing through dramatic mountain and canyon country.

Bisahpur was the seat of Sassanian King Shapur I, who ruled the Persian Empire from around 240 to 270 AD. He went head to head with the Roman Empire, taking their cities, allegedly killing one Roman Emperor (Gordian III), signing a peace treaty with a second (Philip I), and taking a third prisoner (Valerian), along with his army.

These war stories are detailed in vast carvings along the wall of the Chogan Gorge, near the ancient city, itself built by Roman captives.

We found the detailed reliefs completely absorbing, and a good thing too, as it turned out the city ruins were unexpectedly closed on the day we visited.

Our awesome guide Cyrus instead found a path for us above the hill opposite the city, where we could look down on the ruins while he explained the history of the site. There’s still much to be excavated, but archaeologists have so far uncovered a palace, temple, monumental columns and beautiful mosaics.

From the hill above Bishapur, we made our way to the base of a huge escarpment, and began a sweaty, 90 minute climb to a cave hidden in the rockface above. There, overlooking a spectacular mountain-and-valley vista, the cave hosts a monumental statue of King Shapur I, carved from a single block of limestone.

Time, earthquakes, and poor restoration efforts have stolen some of the statue’s command, but it’s still a sight. Better yet, the vast, dark cave behind delivers outstanding acoustics, a fact we discovered when a single voice rang out from the dark in beautiful plaintive song, courtesy of the small group ahead of us.

We day tripped to Bishapur, Chogan Gorge and Shapur I Cave in the company of a Shiraz guide/driver that was recommended to us by other travellers.  Drop us a line  if you’d like the details of our guide, Cyrus. 

Highlights of Western Iran

Shushtar historical hydraulic system – a marvel of ancient engineering.

The best way to appreciate the sheer scale and engineering smarts of Shushtar’s incredible World Heritage-listed historical hydraulic system is to grab a perch at a clifftop café, order some tea (and a water pipe if you’re into hubbly bubbly), and enjoy the view. It’s especially beautiful after dark when it’s all lit up.

The Sassanian-era structures you see today, said to have been built by the captive Roman emperor Valerian and his enslaved army, have been diverting water from the Karun River for irrigation and water mills since around the 3 rd  century. But the people here have been mastering the river and changing the face of this desert landscape to support farming and planting for far longer, since the time of Darius the Great.

In addition to the canals, bridges, mills and cascades you can see at the historical hydraulic complex (which is still operating today), there are sturdy, functioning weirs and dams along the river that showcase the ancient and lasting engineering skill of the Persians.

It’s worth getting down to street level at the hydraulic complex and taking a stroll through the system with the sound of water thundering in your ears while you get up close and personal with the ancient watermills that dot the site.

We travelled to Shushtar by bus from Shiraz, first making our way by overnight bus to the city of Ahvaz, then taking a taxi from the intercity bus station to Istgah Station, where we boarded a local bus to Shushtar. The total cost was around IRR 630,000 each. Entry to the historic hydraulic system was IRR 200,000 each.

Food Highlight:  If you’re staying in Shushtar, be sure to hit up Ferouzdizi for a delicious, beautifully presented meal of Iranian specialty, Dizi.

Choqa Zanbil Ziggurat – The Temple Complex Defying Time

To visit Choqa Zanbil Ziggurat is to travel even further back into ancient Iran, to the period before the rise of the Persian Empire. This huge terraced, pyramid-like structure, dates from the time of the ancient Elamites.

Rising out of the desert like a vast, monolithic mirage, Choqa Zanbil Ziggurat has dominated the dusty landscape of Khuzestan province in southwest Iran for more than three millennia.

This ancient complex of tiered walls, squares, rooms and temples, yet another UNESCO gem, stands out from the crowd in a region teeming with World Heritage sites. More than a hundred meters long on each side, and originally five stories high, the well-preserved brick structure is thought to have once been capped with an über sacred Elamite temple.

We visited the ziggurat in the high heat of the mid-afternoon. With hindsight, we’d look to make it a later visit, both to avoid the heat and the glare. Still, Choqa Zanbil’s scale – in both size and history – make it an amazing sight at any time of day. Moreso when you discover the parched landscape in which it sits was once lush and green. Not easy to imagine.

Keep an eye out for the small details, like the line of bricks running around the entire structure covered in ancient cuneiform script. Also look out for the small footprint preserved in the clay by the sundial in the courtyard paving; how it got there is anyone’s guess but, surrounded as it is by enduring brick and pavement, it’s a compelling human link to a very distant past.

Choqa Zanbil Ziggurat is around 45 minutes’ drive from Shushtar. We highly recommend visiting the ziggurat – and other local attractions like the World Heritage ruins of Shush (Susa) – with a guide, to ensure you get the most out of this very ancient corner of Iran.  Drop us a line  if you’d like the details for our lovely guide, Mehran. Entry to the ziggurat cost us IRR200,000 each.

Have you visited Iran? What would you add to this list? We’d love to hear about your personal favourite things to do in Iran below, or ask us any questions you might have!

2 thoughts on “30 Incredible Things To Do In Iran: Highlights For The First Time Visitor”

Hormoz Island, gheshm island,Darak beach, Tehran country side like Fasham &lavasan

Thanks Melika

Great suggestions, wish we’d have had time to get to some of those spots.

Still, it’s always good to have a reason to go back.

All the best. John and Danielle

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The Best Places To Visit In Iran

Home to 24 UNESCO World Heritage Sites for Culture, Iran is scattered with ancient cities and ancient sites to capture the imagination of any traveller. With so many amazing historical sites to see, a fabulous culture to experience and the friendliest and welcoming people to meet Iran is one of our favourites places to travel to.

From our years of experience travelling in Iran, we have pulled together what we think are the best places to visit in Iran. So, let us jump into it.

Known as the “Red Village”,Abyaneh is one of the oldest standing villages in Iran situated on the slopes of Mount Karkas. Thought to be over 2,500 years old, Abyaneh is a living museum of Iran. The architecture, culture, ceremonies, language and clothing is well preserved from ancient times. The most striking part of Abyaneh is the red brick buildings, constructed of local stone, that melt into the stunning red mountainous backdrop.

The name Ardebil comes from the Zoroastrian name of "Artavil" (mentioned in Avesta) which means a holy place. A market centre for a fertile agricultural region, the town is famed for its silk and carpet trade tradition, and the ancient Ardabil Carpets are considered some of the best of the classical Persian Rug creations. The city also offers its visitors warm mineral springs, which made it a popular resort for the rulers of Persia.

Lying along the southern edge of the Iranian high plateau, ancient Bam can trace its origins back to the Achaemenid period of the 6th to 4th centuries BC. Straddling the crossroads that once bore witness to the caravans of silk and cloth that passed through these desert landscapes, the city’s once great citadel dominated the old oasis, until the devastating earthquake in 2003 that destroyed much of the old and new cities. 

In recent years extensive work has been undertaken to rebuild Bam’s cultural heritage and much of the renovation has remained sympathetic to the original character of the old city, helping to rebuild Bam’s future from the ruins of its past.

Bandare Anzali and the Caspian

Located 1,300m above sea level and established by the Russians in 1800, Bandar Anzali is the most important seaport in the north of Iran. The Caspian Sea is the largest salt-water lake in the world, rich in fish and famous for its natural resources. The coastal area consists of the provinces of Gilan and Mazandaran and with its lush, subtropical vegetation is in marked contrast to the rest of Iran. 

The Caspian coast, generally referred to as 'Shomal' (the North) attracts many Iranian tourists, for its greenery and cooling rains. The scenery, with its thickly wooded mountains and typical Caspian houses is still wild with a great variety of flora and fauna including jackals, bears and wolves. It is an excellent area for trekking or day hikes.

Located in western Iran, Hamedan is in the foothills of the Alvand Mountain. Legend says that the original Hamadan was built by the mythical King Jamshid; whatever the truth, it is certainly the oldest city in Iran and one of the oldest in the world. At the height of its glory, Hamedan was described as one of the most opulent cities. It had splendid palaces, buildings plated with precious metals, and seven layers of town walls, of which the inner two were coated in gold and silver. 

The glorious riches naturally attracted hordes of invading armies but after Alexander's conquest, Hamedan lost much of its former importance. The successive sackings have spared few of Hamedan's ancient monuments; however, some valuable artefacts have come to light, and much remains unexplored.

"Isfahan nesf-e-jahan" Isfahan is half the world. So goes the old Persian saying and without a doubt Isfahan's charms continue to beguile and fascinate visitors. Its magnificent mosques, palaces and bridges are some of the greatest examples of Islamic architecture in the world. Isfahan's golden age was under Shah Abbas I, who came to power in 1587 and made Isfahan his capital city.

Jolfa is located right on the border with Azerbaijan and was at one time a major Armenian settlement until Shah Abbas I moved them to Isfahan at the beginning of the 17th century. They were known for their trade and wine-making skills and 'New Jolfa' is still what Isfahan's Armenian quarter is known as. It has long been an important customs post with much of Iran's imports and exports pass through here.

MORE INSPIRATION IN IRAN

Kashan has several ancient monuments, most famous are the mausoleum of Shah Abbas I, the 12th century Friday Mosque and the Safavid royal buildings south-west of the city centre. Also interesting are the Agha Bozorg Mosque which has a theological school and the beautiful Fin Gardens.

Home to a number of historic mosques and ancient Zoroastrian fire temples, Kerman's historic and cultural ties have seen it endure invasions by Abbasids, Sassanians, Seljuk Turks and Safavids. A thriving centre for Kharijite and Zoroastrian tradition, the city is home to the country's most comprehensive museum dedicated solely to the anthropology of Zoroastrianism. 

When Marco polo visited Kerman in the latter years of the 13th century it was a great centre of trade and, whilst much of that prestige has faded, it can still boast international fame for its carpets and textiles. Things to see in the city include the Friday Mosque, the bazaar and the 17th century Ganj-Ali bathhouse, which is now a museum depicting the Hammam (bathhouse) culture which is still prevalent in the country.

Kermanshah is a picturesque and lively market town with a largely Kurdish population who speak their own language and have their own traditions. In the countryside the Kurdish peasants still wear their typical and colourful clothes. 

Sights in the city include Bisotoon with its bas-reliefs from the Achmaenian period (5th century BC) showing Darius I victory over his enemies; Taghe-Bostan built by the Sassanians in the 3rd century AD with impressive rock carvings and the Temple of Anahita, the goddess of beauty and fecundity dating from Parthian times (200 BC).

The capital of Khorasan province in northeast Iran and the second largest city in the country, Mashhad is best known for its beautiful pilgrimage shrine of Imam Reza. Mashad means 'the place of martyrdom' and is an extremely holy city for Shi'ite Moslems worldwide. It is where the eighth grandson of the prophet Mohammad, Emam Reza, was murdered in 817 and has been a place of pilgrimage ever since. Dress in Mashad should be particularly conservative.

Shiraz is a city of sophistication and has always been celebrated as the heartland of Persian culture. It is the capital of Fars province and is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Shiraz came to prominence after the Arab conquest of Iran and by the 13th century Shiraz had grown into one of the largest Islamic cities of the era; by the mid 18th century, it had become the capital spreading out like a garden on the plains at the foot of the Zagros Mountains. 

Shiraz is synonymous with poetry and learning, as well nightingales and roses, and, at one time, wine. Today Shiraz is a relaxed, cultivated city, with wide tree-lined avenues and enough monuments, gardens and mosques to keep most visitors happy for days.

Dating back to distant antiquity Tabriz is the largest city in north-west Iran and was once the Persian empire capital. Its proximity to the Azerbaijani border has affected its history and it was occupied several times by the Russians in the first half of the 20th century, including during both World Wars.

Tehran is a modern, bustling, overcrowded metropolis with a population of 12 million people. It became the capital of Iran in the 18th century under the Qhajar rulers and despite the traffic and the pollution is well worth a visit. Dominated by the towering Alborz Mountains, it has a wealth of royal palaces and some of the best museums in the Middle East.

The Caspian coast

The Caspian coast, generally referred to as 'Shomal' attracts a great number of Iranian tourists, not so much for its beaches as for its greenery and cooling rains. The scenery, with its thickly wooded mountains and typical Caspian houses is still wild with a great variety of flora and fauna including jackals, bears and wolves. 

It is an excellent area for trekking or day hikes. The inland village of Masouleh is the most attractive and typical of the Caspian villages which can be reached by car or on foot from Rasht, the capital of Gilan. Other attractive towns include Bandar-e-Anzali, the main Caspian port established by the Russians in 1800 famous for its caviar fishery, Ramsar, Sari and Bandare-Torkaman.

Yazd is one of the oldest cities in the world and the centre of the Zoroastrian religion. Zoroastrianism was the main religion across the Iranian plateau until the Arabs brought Islam to the people in the 7th century AD. Yazd is a city of wind towers, high turrets with openings to catch the winds providing natural air-conditioning during the hot summer months and qanats - underground canals used for irrigation. 

A dry, desert city, Yazd until recently used to draw its water supply from the Shir Kuh mountains by means of an elaborate system of qanats, some as much as 45km long.

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14 Beautiful and Historic Places to Visit in Iran

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: January 18, 2021

Iranian travel blogging couple of Travestyle Matin and Parsa share their favorite places to visit in Iran.

There is no dearth of historic places to visit in Iran . Whether you’re traveling along the classic route or going off the beaten track, Iran’s history is bound to make an appearance on your journey.

Table of Contents

Places to Visit in Iran

The history of Iran goes as far as 4000 BC and some of the most famous places in Iran are its historic structures.

Most first-time visitors to Iran, plan their trip to Iran along the central route – covering the cities of Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, Yazd and sometimes Kerman.

Historic places to visit in Iran in 10 days

It’s safe to say that Iran’s top tourist attractions are mostly located along this trail. But if you have some extra time, Khuzestan province in south-west Iran is where you’ll find some of the oldest settlements of Persia.

To guide you through a historic journey along Iran’s most famous cities, we’ve made of a list of must-visit historical attractions you should visit.  

1. Persepolis

Persepolis is easily on top of the list of places to visit in Iran. It’s probably the most famous attraction in Iran that’s known around the world. And it’s also the reason many come to Iran in the first place.

Located around 60km from Shiraz, and dating back to 520 BC, Persepolis was once the glorious ceremonial capital of the Persian empire.

Persepolis was built and ruled by various Achaemenian kings during 150 years. But it’s most thriving period was at the time of Darius the Great. Although sacked and set on fire by Alexandre, you’d be surprised to see how well Persepolis has been preserved.

Today you need a good 2 hours at least to discover the sight. We’d highly suggest getting there early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

2. Naqsh-e Jahan Square

There’s a reason they call this place a pattern of the world. European travelers such as Chardin have praised Esfahan and Naqsh-e Jahan Square in all sorts of ways.

When the Safavid court chose Esfahan as its capital in the 15 th -16 th century, Naqsh-e Jahan was planned to be the centerpiece. Surrounded by two mosques, a palace, and the bazaar, the second largest square in the world is home to the jewels of the Safavid empire.

Go to the square on a summer evening and you’ll witness how it has become a popular picnic spot for local Esfahanis. Grab yourself a saffron ice cream and join the crowds.

3. Yazd old town

The old town of Yazd is surely the most famous place in Iran to go for a stroll. Give yourself a break from guide books and get lost in the finest adobe town of Iran. 

There are mud-brick buildings with stunning courtyards, cozy rooftop cafes, roofed alleyways, and ancient wooden doors to be discovered.

4. Golestan Palace in Tehran

Golestan palace in central Tehran is the best example of Qajar architecture in Iran. When the first Qajar king finally named Tehran as his capital in the 18 th century, the construction of a residential palace took place.

The architecture of Golestan palace was very much inspired by the travels of Qajar kings to Europe, specifically Naser-o-Din Shah. The Shams-Al Emarat palace was considered Iran’s tallest building at the time.

Today the palace is a combination of different monuments and tickets are sold separately for each. The colorful tile work in the garden and the stunning mirror work of the Hall of mirrors are a top highlight.

5. Imam mosque of Esfahan

Shah Abbas I, gathered the finest architects and calligraphers to build this stunning royal mosque during his 25 years of reign. However, he never lived long enough to see it complete.

The Imam Mosque of Esfahan is the finest example of Safavid architecture. The exquisite tile work of its entrance draw visitors inside and then I promise it’s hard to leave.

6. Jameh Mosque of Yazd

Located right in the heart of the oldtown of Yazd, the tall blue and turquoise minarets of the Jameh Mosque are almost visible from every rooftop.

The Jameh Mosque of Yazd is home to the tallest minarets of all of the country and its tile work is one of the most famous in Iran.

7. Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse

Bathhouses in Iran were not only a place for one to clean his/her body but very much a social gathering. Men and women would spend hours in separate bathhouses interacting with one another.

Today many of these old bathhouses in Iran have been turned into museums or restaurants.

While the Ganj Ali Khan bathhouse of Kerman is the most complete form of an Iranian bathhouse, we find the Sultan Amir Ahmaad bathhouse in Kashan to be the most beautiful. Make sure you head up to the roof for a great view of Kashan after your visit.

8. Necropolis or Naqsh-e Rostam, Shiraz

On your way to Persepolis, it’s a must to make a stop at Naqsh-e Rostam to see the Sassanid relief cuts and the huge tombs of 4 Achaemenian kings.

Carved into the rock are 4 chambers that are believed to be the tombs of Darius I, Darius II, Xerxes I and Artaxerxes I.

9. Sheikh Lotfollah mosque, Esfahan

Located in Naqsh-e Jahan square and in front of Ali Qapoo palace is Sheikh Lotfollah mosque. This mosque was designed for the women of Shah Abbas’s Harem and was not accessible to the public.

Today the interior of its double-shelled golden dome is one of the most photographed attractions of Iran. Interestingly, the mosque does not come with any minarets.

10. Nasir-ol Molk Mosque (Pink Mosque), Shiraz

This is the most intagrammable place in Iran without a doubt. Head over to the mosque early in the morning and you’ll witness the colorful morning light dancing on the Persian carpets.

The mosque is well known for its striking pink dominant tile work, hence why it’s also called the Pink Mosque. Make sure you check out the fine example of Muqqarnas in the outer portal.

11. Tower of Silence, Yazd

Yazd is home to the biggest population of Zoroastrians in Iran and you’re ought to add at least one Zoroastrian attraction to your list of places to visit in Iran.

Soil is considered sacred according to Zoroastrian beliefs. So it was not to be contaminated with dead bodies. Ancient Zoroastrians took dead bodies to mountain tops where they would be exposed to the sun and scavenging birds.

Today the practice is forgotten but you can witness its location on the Tower of Silence in Yazd. The tower also gives a great view of the city.

12. Shazdeh Garden of Kerman

The true meaning of an oasis resembles in the Shazdeh garden of Kerman. Located right in the middle of a barren desert is this beautiful garden with fountains and flowing qanat water.

Many locals come here for a picnic but the garden and its small Qajar palace are well worth a visit.

13. Khajoo Bridge, Esfahan

Among Esfahan’s top attractions are a few bridges. The Khajoo bridge built in about 1650 is the finest of them all.

Apart from the gorgeous architecture, the bridge is a gathering point for many of the locals. It’s common to find old men singing underneath the bridge around sunset.

Unfortunately, it’s been years since water has been flowing under the bridge all throughout the year. Due to the drought, a dam was built and the water of the river is collected for drinking. If you get lucky, you might see it flowing around springtime.

14. Tabatabai House, Kashan

Built around 1860, the historic house of Tabatabai is one of the most beautiful mansions in Kashan.

This 5,000 square meters house well known for its stone reliefs, stucco designs, and stained window glasses.

Author Bio:

Matin and Parsa, are an Iranian travel blogging couple behind Travestyle . They provide photo-heavy destination guides with a special focus on Iran.

They live in Tehran and offer travel consulting and guiding services for those interested in visiting Iran. You can follow their blog on Facebook , Pinterest , Youtube , and Twitter .

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6 thoughts on “14 Beautiful and Historic Places to Visit in Iran”

Hi, I’m going to travel to Iran in April, How can I book my hotels and get my Iran visa? what do you recommend?

Fantastic post, thanks for sharing. Iran looks incredible – it’s been on my bucket list a long time and I’m glad I found this article with lots of new places I can add to my Iran itinerary.

Best Wishes,

Iran is a beautiful place to visit with lots of historical attractions. Nice article. Thank you for sharing.

What great info! We plan to visit Iran next time. Loved your blog.

I love your style!!!! So fashinable!!!

Superb reading and all these tips are great,! I did not visit Iran but looks like a great place to visit soon. There are lots of old building and places. Not a bad place to making memories.

30 places not to miss when visiting Iran

A list of 30 must-see places in Iran Holidays in Iran are regarded by many travellers as an unforgettable experience. Not only is it the ancient history, but also a collection of truly diverse beautiful…

12 Sep 17 · 4 mins read

A list of 30 must-see places in Iran

Holidays in Iran are regarded by many travellers as an unforgettable experience. Not only is it the ancient history, but also a collection of truly diverse beautiful landscapes that are there to be explored. The people are welcoming. It’s place on the Silk road has influenced its magnificent art and architecture that is there to be explored.

Here is Odyssey Traveller’s list of our recommendations of the places you should definitely visit on your Iran holiday.

“Esfahan nesf-e jahan” (Esfahan is half the world) … Renier, a 16th century French poet

In 1047, the Seljuks made Esfahan their capital and began to adorn it with their magnificently geometric style of architecture. When Shah Abbas the Great made Esfahan his capital in 1598, he added many more beautiful buildings to the considerable wealth of history preserved in the construction of earlier periods. Esfahan is an essential stop when travelling in Iran, and it’s worth spending time here enjoying the beauty of the city.

The Maidan-e Naqsh-e Jahan (‘the image of the world square’) contains many of the main sights to see in Esfahan. This is the second largest square in the world, and its beauty owes much to the vision of Shah Abbas the Great. Construction began in 1602 as the centrepiece of his new capital, and consequently it became the home of the finest architectural jewels in the Safavid empire. Around 15km of bazaar surrounds the square, and the goal posts used in polo games over 400 years ago are still in place at either end. Locals and tourists flock here to enjoy its gardens and fountains, or shop in the surrounding bazaar.

What are the key places in Esfahan to see?

• The Imam Mosque , the largest building attributed to Shah Abbas the Great. Work began on the magnificent entrance portal in 1611, and it took four years to finish. 30m tall, it has mosaics featuring geometric designs, floral motifs and calligraphy by the greatest artists of the age. The Mosque faces towards Mecca, however the entrance portal is oriented to face the square.
• The Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque , originally built for the Shah’s harem. Its pale dome makes use of delicate cream-coloured tiles that change colour throughout the day from cream to pink. Its portal boasts some of the best surviving Safavid era mosaics in the country.
• The Ali Qapu Palace , built at the end of the 16th century as a residence for Shah Abbas I. Its elevated terrace affords a wonderful perspective of the Square and one of the best views of the Imam Mosque.
• Chehel Sotun , built as a pleasure pavilion and reception hall. Today it’s most famous for its frescoes. Although the Afghans whitewashed them during an 18th century invasion, the frescoes fortunately survived.
• Khaju bridge over the Zayande river. The Khaju Bridge is arguably the finest in the city. Its 110m length has two levels of terraced arcades, the lower containing locks to regulate the water flow. The remains of some of the original painting and tiles can still be seen, as well as stone seats built for the Shah to sit on to admire the view.
• Sio She Pol Bridge is 298m long, with 33 arches that give it its name. It links the upper and lower halves of the Chahar Bagh, the tree-lined main street that runs through the centre of Esfahan
• Cathedral of the Holy Saviour (the Vank Cathedral) , between 1606 and 1655. Its richly decorated interior is the focal point of the Armenian Church in Iran.

Shiraz; is also a must see place of interest on any Iran Trip

Shiraz is a city of over 1 million people within Fars province, in the southern Zagros Mountains. Once a much larger region, its language, Farsi, became the official language of the Persians. Shiraz held a pivotal role in the later history of Persia, particularly after the Arab invasion. It became the literary capital thanks, in part, to the reputations of the poets Sa’di, who died in 1291, and Hafez, who died in 1389. It was the Iranian capital during the mid 1700s the Zand dynasty made it their capital. Many of the most beautiful buildings were built or underwent restoration in this period. Always a centre for learning and all things fine, Shiraz fortunately escaped destruction by Genghis Khan and Tamerlane’s forces. In the Safavid period, European traders came here to export the city’s famous wine.

What are the key places in Shiraz to see?

• The Arg-e Karim Khan , in the centre of Shiraz itself. The Arg is a citadel, built during the early Zand period as part of the royal court. Iran’s ruler at the time, Karim Khan, hoped Shiraz would rival Esfahan. Its design combines military and residential architecture, as it was the home of Karim Khan and his military base. After the fall of the Qajar dynasty it became a prison, and in 1971 Iran’s Cultural Heritage Organisation took over its management and began renovations in 1977.
• The photogenic Vakil Bazaar, in the historical center of the city. First built in the 11th century, it’s a wonderful place to have lunch and spend time wandering around.
• Pasargadae , built by Cyrus the Great, founder of the Achaemedian Empire in around 546 BCE. His tomb, private palace and audience palace still survive.
• Persepolis , known locally as Takht-e Jamshid (‘Jamshid’s Throne’), after a legendary king. It’s undoubtedly one of the highlights of a visit to Iran, a vast array of magnificent ruins conveying the splendour of Achaemenid Persia. Persepolis is renowned for its monumental architecture, urban planning, construction technology and art. Work began when Darius the Great took the throne in 518 BCE, and later kings including Xerxes I and II and Artaxerxes I, II and III all made additions. Eventually it spread over 125,000sqm and was one of four cities at the heart of an empire that spread from the Indus River to Ethiopia. During the annual Nowruz (New Year) celebrations, subjects came from across the empire to pay homage and tribute to their kings. Alexander the Great burned Persepolis to the ground in 330 BCE, and it was lost for centuries under dust and sand until excavations in the 1930s. Although Alexander’s historians wrote of its total destruction, significant areas of the centre remain – along with some of the greatest sculpture found in Iran today. (We have another article on the Persepolis )
• Naqsh-e Rostam, the magnificent royal tombs, are hewn out of a cliff high about the ground. They are thought to contain the tombs of Darius II, Ataxerxes I, Darius I and Xerxes I. The openings lead to chambers for bone storage, once the carrion birds had cleaned them up. The reliefs above the openings show the kings standing at fire altars, supported by figures representing their subject nations. Eight Sassanian stone reliefs are cut into the cliff, depicting scenes of imperial conquests and royal ceremonies.

Tehran, the capital city of Iran

Tehran was first known in the 13th century as a village of Rey, at that time the main urban centre under the Achaemenid Empire After its sacking by the Mongols in 1220, the survivors fled to Tehran, turning the village into a moderately prosperous trading centre. In the 16th century the Safavid king Tahmasb I laid out gardens, caravanserai, and a wall with 114 towers to protect the town. It continued to grow during the 18th century and became Iran’s 32nd capital city in 1795. The palaces and gardens of the 18th century Qajar dynasty and the following Pahlavis are now places of interest, along with Tehran’s wonderful museums.

What are the key places in Theran to see?

• The Sa’ad Abad Museum complex is set within 104 hectares of parkland. The Pahlavis used it as their summer home. Today, the complex is home to several different museums: the White Palace, the Pahlavi’s summer residence; the Green Palace, built at the end of the Qajar era; the Nation’s Art Museum, Military Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts.
• The National Museum of Iran has a wonderful collection of artefacts from excavations including Persepolis. Highlights include inscriptions, a statue of a wonderfully life-like mastiff and an Elamite statue of a bull from the 2nd millennium BCE.
• The National Jewel Museum is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Tehran, housed within an enormous bank vault. Most of the collection dates to the 16th to 17th Safavid period. Highlights include the famous Darya-ye Nur (Sea of Light) pink diamond, weighing 182 carats and said to be the largest uncut diamond in the world; and a Globe of Jewels, made in 1869 from 51,366 gems. The seas are are made of emeralds and the land in rubies, while Iran, France and England are in picked out in diamonds.
• The Qajar ruler Nasser al-Din Shah (r. 1848-96) admired European palaces so much he wanted one of his own! Consequently he built the lovely Golestan Palace on the site of an earlier Safavid era citadel.

Yazd, an oasis in a tour of Iran

Yazd is an historic Silk Road oasis town set to the east of the Zagros mountains between two deserts. The extremely hot temperatures in summer led to the development of architecture adapted to its desert surroundings. Consequently, it’s nicknamed Shahr-e Badgirha (the City of Windcatchers), after its many fine badgirs (wind towers). These rely on the wind and convection to cool houses and the water reservoirs in the town area.

After the Arab conquest of Iran in the 7th century, many Zoroastrians migrated to Yazd from neighbouring provinces. The Arabs allowed Yazd to remain Zoroastrian even after its conquest, and Islam only gradually became the dominant religion in the city.

What are the key places in Yazd to see?

• The Old City area is one of the oldest towns on earth. The old city is a warren of sun-dried mud brick homes dominated by tall badgirs and high walls — a wonderfully historic place perfect for a good wander around.
• The Jameh Mosque, built in the 15th century, has one of the tallest entrance portals in Iran, including two 48m high minarets. The mosque is built on the site of a 12th century building that was once an earlier fire temple.
• Meybod is and ancient village some 50 kilometres north of Yazd. Built of mainly mud brick houses, this village is at least 1,800 years old. It has several buildings and structures typical of old Iran including a caravanserai, an underground qanat water supply system, a ‘fertiliser’ factory (!) in the form of a pigeon tower, a huge Safavid era ice house, and in the centre of town, the Narein Castle, thought to be one of Iran’s oldest.
• The haunting Towers of Silence, now on the outskirts of the city. Yazd was one of the strongholds of Zoroastrianism. In accordance with Zoroastrian beliefs about the purity of the earth, dead bodies were not buried but placed in uncovered stone towers — the Towers of Silence — where birds could pick the bodies clean. They were last used in the 1960s.
• Finally on a slightly more cheerful note, confectionary ! Today, Yazd is famous for confectionary, which has a tremendous following throughout Iran. Recipes are closely guarded secrets! Baklava , ghotab and pashmak are the most popular sweets made in the city.

Hamadan, once known as Ecbatana, was one of the ancient world’s greatest cities. It lies on the legendary Silk Road between Mesopotamia and the Iranian Plateau.

What are the key places in Hamadan to see?

• The Alisadr Caves have a river, up to 14m deep, flowing through the middle. You can explore the caves by boat along channels leading to an enormous underground atrium.
• The Temple of Anahita at Kangavar. Classical historians have written that the temple was a vast palace built in wood and covered by plates of silver or gold. The floor tiles were silver, and the whole building faced with bricks of silver and gold. Eventually Alexander the Great’s forces plundered this incredible wealth around 331 BCE.
• Taq-e Bostan (the Arch of the Garden) is a towering cliff inscribed with extraordinary Sassanian bas-reliefs, set in and around a pair of carved alcoves. The site is in a beautiful setting on the Silk Road and the reliefs are adjacent to a spring that empties into a large reflecting pool at the base of the mountain cliff.
• The World Heritage listed archaeological site of Bisotun sits alongside the ancient trade route linking the Iranian high plateau with Mesopotamia. It features remains from prehistoric times through to the Median, Achaemenid, Sassanian, and Ilkhanid periods. Its main sight is the bas-relief and cuneiform inscription of Darius The Great, from when he rose to the throne of the Persian Empire in 521 BCE. It portrays Darius holding a bow as a sign of sovereignty, treading on the chest of a figure who lies on his back before him. According to legend, the figure represents Gaumata, the Median pretender to the throne whose assassination led to Darius’s rise to power. Finally, below and around the bas-reliefs there is an inscription of around 1,200 lines which tells the story of the battles Darius waged against the governors who attempted to take apart the Empire.

First settled in the 4th millennium BCE, the history of the lovely city of Kashan is interwoven with legend. One oral history has the Bible’s Three Wise Men setting out from here to pay their respects to the baby Jesus. This is distinctly possible, as the Three Wise Men were magis (Zoroastrian priests) — hence ‘the Adoration of the Magi’. During the Seljuk period (1051-1220 CE), Kashan became famous for its textiles, pottery and tiles.

What are the key places in Kashan to see?

• The Fin Garden is over 1,000 years old, and was a summer retreat by some of the Safavid kings. It’s a classical Persian vision of paradise, famous for its spring water. This is channelled through several pools and fountains to water the garden’s orchards and trees.
• A wealthy carpet merchant named Seyyed Ja’far Tabatabei built the Khan-e Tabatabei around 1880. The house is famous for its intricate stone reliefs and its fine stucco, mirror and stained glass decoration. It has three sections: the andaruni, where family members lived; the biruni used for entertaining guests; and the khadameh (servants’ quarters).
• In the 1890s, a merchant known as Borujerdi, who wanted the hand of Seyyed Ja’far Tabatabei’s daughter in marriage, built the Khan-e Borujerdi . Its reception hall features frescoes painted by Kamal ol-Molk, the foremost Iranian artist of the time

Finally you have a list of 30 places recommended by Odyssey Travellers as the must see places on a tour of Iran. They are unique set, often recognised by UNESCO as important experiences and buildings in the world. Recognised for their contribution to human settlement.

Odyssey Traveller offers Iran tours each year, typically with two departures as a minimum.

These articles may also assist in you with your Iran travel plans. The first is a general piece on Iran The second article is on Persepolis

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Top Iran Tourist Places: Best Places to Visit in Iran (Attractions in Iran)

Best places to visit in iran, must-see iran attractions & tourist places.

Iran is a country of over seven thousand years of history, an incredibly diverse nature, and a remarkably rich culture. From the northwest to the southeast, genius ancient relics, intricate Islamic architectural masterpieces, the wisdom of Zoroastrianism , deep-rooted festivals , and many other Iran attractions make the country a real charmer. What makes Iran even more attractive is finger-licking dishes, spirituality-laden literature and music, and a people that surprise you with their warmth and hospitality. But if you’re looking for best places to visit in Iran , the cities of Shiraz , Isfahan , Yazd , Kashan and Tehran must be on your visit list.

Visit Iran Tourist Places With IranOnTour

Iran is so diverse and rich that even a month time could be short for exploring Iran tourist attractions. But joining one of carefully crafted tours will take you to the most visited places and most fascinating secrets. Adapting your travel itinerary to your unique taste, interests, style, timing and budget is also our special offer to you. Find some of our popular packages below:

7-Day Iran Tour: The Must-See Attractions

9-Day Iran Tour: From Tabriz to World Heritage Highlights

10-Day Tour of Iran: On the Tourist Radar

12-Day Iran Tour: History, Culture & Sand

13-Day Iran Tour: On & Off the Beaten Path

16-Day Tour of Iran: Deep into the Heart of Persia

Iran attractions types.

The depth of Iranian culture and history, the breadth of its geography, and the diversity of its nature have blessed the country with a variety of tourist attractions that can be categorized so:

Ancient Attractions in Iran

Over seven thousand years of history and civilizations makes Iran one of the world’s most ancient places. Isn’t it just mind-blowing that remains of urban settlements and historical artifacts that date back to 7000 BC have been discovered in Iran?! One of the world’s best kept ziggurats, the 3200-year-old Chogha Zanbil ( UNESCO ), and the impressive mementos of Achaemenid empire like Persepolis (UNESCO) and Naqsh-e Rostom Necropolis are of the best ancient places to visit in Iran.

Over seven thousand years of history and civilizations makes Iran one of the world’s most ancient places. Isn’t it just mind-blowing that remains of urban settlements and historical artifacts that date back to 7000 BC have been discovered in Iran?! One of the world’s best kept ziggurats, the 3200-year-old Chogha Zanbil ( UNESCO ), and the impressive mementos of Achaemenid empire like Persepolis (UNESCO) and Naqsh-e Rostom Necropolis are of the best ancient attractions of Iran.

Islamic Attractions in Iran

After the Arab Conquest of Persia and the fall of Sassanid Dynasty, Iran became an Islamic country. This new religion gradually interweaved with the thousands of years of civilization that already existed and gave birth to architectural, artistic, literary and spiritual beauties that have made Iran even more precious. Isfahan ’s acclaimed Naqsh-e Jahan Square is probably one of the best examples of Iran’s Islamic architecture and top tourism places in Iran.

Zoroastrian Attractions in Iran

A man named Zarathustra was born over 4000 years ago, changed Iran, and gave birth to one of the world’s most ancient and inspiring faiths. This spiritual leader who had a deep respect for nature and a belief in a benevolent God became the prophet of greatest Persian empires: Median, Achaemenid, and Sassanid. From the religion he created, Zoroastrianism , deep-rooted ceremonies, unique traditions, and ancient buildings have remained in Iran. Yazd , as the present symbol of Zoroastrianism features Iran attractions that introduce you to this ancient belief.

A man named Zarathustra was born over 4000 years ago and changed Iran and gave birth to one of the world’s most ancient and inspiring faiths. This spiritual leader who had a deep respect for nature and a belief in a benevolent God became the prophet of greatest Persian empires: Median, Achaemenid, and Sassanid. From the religion he created, Zoroastrianism , deep-rooted ceremonies, unique traditions, and ancient buildings have remained in Iran. Yazd , as the present symbol of Zoroastrianism features Iran attractions that introduce you to this ancient belief.

Intangible Cultural Attractions in Iran

Literature, arts , music , traditions and festivals that are tied with love, spirituality, philosophy and wisdom are of the most beautiful mysteries and charms of Iran. Rural, local and nomadic lifestyle are also another rare treats. Discovering these intangible Iranian heritages beside stops by Iran’s tourist attractions will enrich your trip and make it hard to forget. Festivals like Nowruz (UNESCO) and Yalda , instruments like Tanbur that enchant you with their mystical ring, and small traditions you can discover by spending time with people are some of Iran’s cultural attractions.

Modern Attractions in Iran

You can find nice traces of modernity in Iran’s top cities . Though tradition is still prominent, modern life has penetrated lifestyle and architecture. Of the most admirable of Iran’s modern attractions can be discovered in the capital, Tehran . The Museum of Modern Arts , Tabiat Bridge , and the iconic symbols of the city, Azadi Tower and Milad Tower , are the must-see modern places to visit in Iran.

You can find nice traces of modernity in Iran’s top cities . Though tradition is still prominent, modern life has penetrated lifestyle and architecture. Of the most admirable of Iran’s modern attractions can be discovered in the capital, Tehran . The Museum of Modern Arts , Tabiat Bridge , and the iconic symbols of the city, Azadi Tower and Milad Tower , are the must-see modern attractions of Iran.

Natural Attractions in Iran

What makes Iran’s nature special and among the top Iran attractions is its surprising diversity. In Iran, you can go skiing in cold snowy mountains, experience off-roading to the depth of hot sandy deserts , take a walk along sunny islands , go hiking through dense jungles, and find unique spectacles like mangroves, salt domes and other geological wonders.

Top Destinations & Places to Visit in Iran

Shiraz Tourist Attractions

Shiraz , the city of poets, lovely garden mansions, historical complexes and world-known ancient sites nearby is one of the most visited places in Iran. The city also enjoys an uplifting aura and hospitable carefree people!

Best Places to Visit in Shiraz

Isfahan Tourist Attractions

The intricacy of Isfahan ’s masterpieces of Islamic architecture has made the city one of the best places to visit in Iran. As home to a gallery of popular Iran attractions, the historical city of Isfahan has been a part of the golden triangle of Iran.

Best Places to Visit in Isfahan

Tehran Tourist Attractions

Tehran is the hub of Iran’s top museums , museum palaces, galleries and cafes. Reflecting both the historical roots of the Iranian nation and modern Iranian life, Tehran is also one of the must-see Iran tourist places.

Best Places to Visit in Tehran

Yazd Tourist Attractions

Amazing desert architecture and the precious relics of the ancient Persian religion, Zoroastrianism , put the historical city of Yazd ( UNESCO ) on the list of top Iran attraction. With adorable winding alleyways, attractive wind catchers, and earthen desert architecture, Yazd is an unmissable Place to visit in Iran.

Best Places to Visit in Yazd

Kashan Tourist Attractions

This fascinating town near Isfahan , also showcases the elegant elements of Persian architecture in Iran’s most impressive historical mansions. Iran’s most picturesque traditional houses and admirable architectural masterpieces make Kashan an unmissable point on Iran’s map!

Best Places to Visit in Kashan

Tailor-Made Iran Attractions Tours

We have done our best to consider both your various tastes and Iran’s immense potentials to craft the best possible Iran Attractions tour packages for you. If you’d like your trip to Iran to be a certain way or in any  corner of Iran, we will be more than happy to help you create it.

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Which Iranian city is best to visit?

Dear Kevin, all Iranian cities are lovely. Shiraz, Tehran, Isfahan, Yazd, Kashan, Tabriz, Kerman, and Qeshm are highly recommended. I personally like Shiraz the most.

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The 12 most beautiful places to visit in Iran

A country steeped in history and with an incredible heritage, Iran is a country often misunderstood and wrongly avoided by many travelers. However, Iran has everything to please: a culture several thousand years old, fantastic monuments and cities, varied landscapes ranging from snow-capped mountains to arid deserts via the sea, as well as a population among the most welcoming in the world. world !

Wondering what to do in Iran? Know that there are so many wonderful places to discover, that you will probably find it difficult to visit them all during your trip! Fortunately, to help you prepare for your Iranian adventure, we have prepared a list of the 12 most beautiful places to visit in Iran!

Table of Contents

Photo credit:  Flickr – hoochie740

Visiting Iran without discovering its capital is impossible! Already because  Tehran  will be your gateway to this wonderful Persian world, then because it is home to magnificent monuments, such as the  Golestan Palace  , a masterpiece of the Qadjar era located in the heart of the historic center which houses several museums, or the  Niavaran Palace  , one of the residences of Shah  Mohammad Reza Pahlavi  , or the National Museum.

And to escape the pollution of the city, why not reach one of the seven ski resorts of the Alborz chain thanks to the cable cars north of Tehran? Because yes, if you are wondering what to do in Iran, know that it is possible to ski there! If you are wondering what to do in Tehran, you can take inspiration from our article “  The 12 essential things to do in Tehran  ”!

For history buffs or laymen,  Isfahan  is a must visit destination if you are planning to visit Iran! Located south of Tehran, in the very center of the country, it is the former capital of the Persian Empire and is particularly renowned for its architecture dating from this period.

Thanks to its history, Isfahan brings together a multitude of monuments among the most beautiful in the country and in the Middle East, such as  the Imam  Mosque and the Sheikh Lotf Allah Mosque, masterpieces of Iranian architecture of the period safavid.

In town, you can also stroll along the Zayandehrood River next to the old bridges of Isfahan, such as the famous Pol-e Khaju. Also take advantage of your stay to stroll through the charming irrigated gardens of the city, in the  bazaar of Isfahan  or to discover the sublime Armenian Cathedral Vank!

Photo credit:  Flickr – Teseum

Also spelled  Shiraz  , it is known as the cultural and artistic capital of Iran, city of poets and great philosophers of the 13th and 14th century like  Saadi  and Hâfez!

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shiraz is home to marvels, such as the Persian gardens of Afif-Abad,  Eram  and Delgosha, which command admiration. A soft and peaceful atmosphere reigns in Shiraz, the Iranians appreciate this city very much.

In addition to the gardens, you can also visit the  Karim Khan Citadel  , a formidable fortified complex which houses luxurious hammams, gardens, swimming pools, courtyards and rooms! Or the magical  Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque  : plunging through the stained glass windows, the sun’s rays form a superb luminous kaleidoscope in the prayer room.

4. Persepolis

Photo credit: Flickr – Andrea Moroni

70 km northeast of Shiraz,  Persepolis  is an essential site to visit in Iran. Because if you are still wondering what to do in Iran, know that visiting this country is also taking a leap into ancient history!

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this archaeological site was originally a city founded by  Darius I  in 521 BC. Partially destroyed during the conquest of Persia by Alexander the Great, it is possible today to visit the ruins of the various dwellings, palaces and carved staircases.

5. There is

Credit photo:  Flickr – Kamyar Adl

South of Tehran,  Kashan  is an essential stopover if you are planning to visit Iran! Before reaching the famous Isfahan or the beautiful Shiraz, it will seduce you with its bazaar which forms a magnificent and sprawling complex with its mosques and madreseh, its tombs, caravanserais, arcades and baths!

The Friday Mosque is also a must-see during your stay in Kashan, as well as the  End Garden  , an archetype of the Persian garden.

6. The Maranjab Desert

Photo credit:  Flickr – harveypekar84

What to do in Iran? Walk in the desert, of course! Not far from the city of Kashan, the  Maranjab desert  is a popular place for Iranians themselves: to get out of the city and enjoy the great outdoors, this place is perfect.

Superb walks in the sand dunes await you in this desert: you can even imagine yourself in a setting from the cartoon Aladdin! It is even possible to sleep in a caravanserai and pet camels roaming free during your stay in the desert.

7. The Red Village of Abyaneh

Photo credit:  Flickr – Jurriaan Persyn

Not far from Kashan and the Maranjab desert,  Abyaneh  is a superb typical Iranian village.

It will charm you with its picturesque houses made of clay bricks, its local crafts, as well as the superb walks in the middle of the nearby rivers and mountains that await you there! To visit traditional Iran, nothing better than taking a trip to Abyaneh.

An oasis city in central Iran,  Yazd  is located between the deserts of Dasht-e Kavir in the north and that of Dasht-e Lut in the south. To immerse yourself in Iranian culture, Yazd is the perfect city. Typical and calm atmosphere, authentic old town and picturesque mosques, Yazd has only good times in store for you. Nothing better than enjoying a magnificent sunset on the roof of a café, a delicious tea in hand, to admire the beautiful Yazd and its warm colors!

In town, you will marvel at the Amir Chakhmaq complex, with its baths, mosque and even its underground bazaar, or at the charming adobe houses. And if you are still wondering what to do in Iran, we can only recommend that you visit the Towers of Silence, vestiges of Zoroastrianism and which are not far from the city!

Crédit photo :  Wikimedia – Arteen Arakel Lalabekyan

The largest city in southeastern Iran, the city was probably founded by the Sassanid king  Ardashir I  in the 3rd century. The ancient city is known for its production of famous Persian carpets, as well as for housing some of the most beautiful monuments in Iran, such as the Great Mosque or the Gandj Ali Khan bath.

Around the city, the village of Mahan, with its famous mausoleum and the  garden of Shahzadeh  , is to be discovered. But above all, it is the gigantic city-citadel of Bam, located on the famous Silk Road, which will attract you to the region!

10. Masouleh

Photo credit:  Flickr – Michael Wong

Masouleh  presents a unique architecture of its kind. Built on the mountainside, the buildings are interconnected so that the courtyards and roofs form pedestrian spaces. Indeed, the roof of a house also serves as a courtyard for the house above!

With its narrow streets, its many stairs and its ocher-colored clay houses, Masouleh has an extraordinary charm. On the road to Tabriz in the North-West, it is an essential village to visit in Iran!

Photo credit:  Flickr – Alan Cordova

With a history dating back over 4500 years,  Tabriz  is one of the oldest cities in the world! Thanks to its long history, Tabriz is home to spectacular monuments such as the  Blue Mosque  , tiled with superb blue ceramics, or the  Tabriz Bazaar  , one of the oldest bazaars in the Middle East and the largest covered bazaar in the world!

The latter is even listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But above all, Tabriz is a small culinary paradise, being at the crossroads of Iranian and Azeri cultures.

12. Qeshm Island

Photo credit:  Flickr – Ninara

Still wondering what to do in Iran? Then you absolutely must discover the amazing and enchanting scenery of the largest island in the Persian Gulf! Qeshm  Island  hosts a rich and varied natural environment, with impressive geological phenomena, such as salt and sulfur caves, valleys and canyons, which you can discover by visiting the Valleys of Stars and Statues.

Also take advantage of your stay to discover the picturesque little fishing village of Laft or the islands of Naz or Hormoz!

Mohamed SAKHRI

I am Mohamed SAKHRI, the creator and editor-in-chief of this blog, 'Discover the World – The Blog for Curious Travelers.' Join me as we embark on a journey around the world, uncovering beautiful places, diverse cultures, and captivating stories. Additionally, we will delve into mysterious and, at times, even bizarre destinations.

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Discover the World is aimed at lovers of travel and beautiful landscapes. You will find as many tips and practical advice as beautiful destinations that will make your mouth water. With its dreamy photos, you will undoubtedly want to fly around the world.. Learn more about me on Linkedin! ,  Twitter! ,  Reddit .

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The Best of Iran, A Guide to the Best Places to Visit

As an American traveling to Iran , I had to plan my Iran itinerary and had it approved before I could even apply for Iran visa. I had to make a decision what to do and where to go in Iran months before my departure. Once approved, no changes to the itinerary are allowed either. A big change from how I usually travel (I usually change my mind about 1000 times during a trip). However, I was just happy that at the time Americans were still allowed to travel to Iran. Who knows if/when things are going change.

Logistic: Iran Visa for US citizens

Ali Qapu palace in Isfahan

Most first-time visitors to Iran follow “classic Iran itinerary”: Shiraz, Yazd, Persepolis, etc. It’s a popular route where you’ll bound to come across other foreigners. Its popularity has good reasons. The classic itinerary highlights the best of Persia’s architecture. Iran’s mosques, gardens, and palaces are after all some of most famous places to visit in Iran. I decided to loosely follow this itinerary, swapping certain things for activities that I was more interested in.

However Iran also has diverse natural landscapes that shouldn’t be missed if you have the extra time. Gilan province in the north of Tehran is lush and almost tropical. Qeshm island is full of canyons and swimming holes. Lut desert’s moon-like landscape is spectacular. I didn’t visit all of these places while I was in Iran due to time constraint, but I included them here because you should consider them when planning your trip to Iran.

When it comes time to plan your Iran itinerary, here are some of the best places to visit in Iran to include in your itinerary.

Gilan Province

If you’d like to do some trekking or hiking in Iran, Gilan Province is where you must head to. With its subtropical climate and forests, it’s a part of Iran you don’t often associate with the country. This region north of Tehran has beautiful lush mountains and valleys suitable for outdoor activities: hiking, multi-day trekking, and even rock climbing. I would’ve definitely spent more time in Gilan if I had known about this area.

The Assassin Castle/Alamut Castle

What an awesome name, right? Even though the castle is in mere ruins now, its spectacular location in Alamut Valley makes this a place worth visiting. The best way to visit the Assassin Castle is by hiring a taxi for the day (~$70/car) from the nearest town, Qazvin.

Remains of Alamut Castle Clinging to a Crag Above the Valley by Julia

Masuleh is an ochre-colored village, perched high on a steep cliff. Surrounded by lush jungle on all sides and often shrouded in fog, Masuleh is world’s away in climate and appearance from Iran’s other cities. A popular holiday destination for wealthy Iranian urbanites, it’s not on most foreigners’ radar just yet but it might change soon.

Related Reading: Masuleh, Iran’s Prettiest Village

Pretty Masuleh, Iran

Tehran reminded me a bit of my native hometown, Jakarta. Just like Jakarta, it’s not an easy city to love. It’s chaotic and busy. Crossing its streets is the most dangerous thing a visitor can do. I’m glad we only stayed one day in Tehran – one day was enough to see everything of interest to me in Tehran.

National Jewelry Museum

I did enjoy visiting the National Jewelry Museum. As you can expect, you can see a lot of glittery things here. My favorite item though is the jewel-encrusted, giant globe that’s as tall as a person . The line was long since the number of people inside the one-room museum is limited.

Tehran Grand Bazaar

Large and chaotic especially after work hours. Even though the bazaar might carry anything and everything under the sun, the tricky part is finding them.

Azadi Tower

Azadi Tower, Tehran

If you have more time in Iran:

Milad Tower – At over 430 meters tall, Milad Tower is the 6th tallest tower in the world. Located on the outskirt of Tehran, it’s a perfect place to admire Tehran cityscape during sunset.

Golestan Palace – Built in the 16th century, the Golestan Palace is one of Tehran’s most visited attractions. It’s a complex of various royal buildings, gardens, and museums housing Iranian craft-works as well as gifts from European dignitaries.

Shrine of Fatima Masumeh

Fatimah tomb is considered to be one of the most sacred religious sites by Shia Muslims. Women visitors are required to wear chador (on top of Iran’s already strict dress code) which are available to borrow at the entrance. Iranian women had mastered the art of wrapping and gripping the extra fabric around their body (even holding it in their mouth) so it doesn’t get in the way. Me, on the other hand, not so much.

Tripping all over the chador, I made my way through the complex and gawked shamelessly at the dazzling gold and silver encased honeycomb vaulting (or muqarnas ).

Fatima Masumeh tomb in Qom

What to Eat: Sohan

While in Qom, you have to try sohan , a local toffee brittle flavored heavily with saffron as well as cardamom, rose water, and pistachios. Literally a desert made of all of my favorite things! It’s soooo heavenly. Iranian desserts is very regional specific and I got to try all sorts of different Iranian sweets, but sohan is my favorite. Be careful, because of its high butter content, it tends to “melt” in high temperature and will make a mess in your backpack (yep, totally speaking from experience).

Kashan is known for its collection of beautiful historical houses built by the rich merchants of Kashan. Some of these are now open to the public. While in Kashan, you should try to get to the rooftop (ask your guesthouse owner). The rooftops of Kashan houses often connect and you can go from one to the other. I had fun exploring the city from above, peering into secluded courtyards, and enjoying the skyline at sunset.

Tabatabai and Boroojerdiha houses

Are some examples of fine residential houses in Kashani.

Left: BOROOJERDIHA HOUSE, Right: Fin Garden

The rooftop of Kashan

If you have more time in Kashan:

Fin Gardens Persian gardens were once renowned around the world for their designs, especially its irrigation system; pools and fountains that utilize underground canals, powered by gravity instead of pump.

Abyaneh Village The houses in Abyaneh are of a unique reddish hue, a color that comes from the local soil. The village is one of the oldest in Iran and still relatively traditional. Local Abyunaki woman typically wears a white scarf with floral pattern. Walking around the village I got a sense that it’s a dying town with only the older population remaining. I’m guessing that the young generation has left to bigger towns for work.

An Abyaneh woman

Many of Isfahan’s landmarks are some of the most photographed sights in Iran. The 2 mosques around the Royal Square ( Shah Mosque and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque ) are often considered to be the most beautiful mosques not just in Iran, but the world. There aren’t enough superlatives, really. The architecture and the tile works are simply stunning.

Isfahan is also known for their carpets and their miniature paintings – you can find these at the bazaar. I ordered a custom miniature painting of our beloved orange tabby (and paid a king’s ransom for it) and was really pleased with the result.

Naqsh-e Jahan/Royal Square

The Royal Square in Isfahan and the Shah Mosque

Shah Mosque

The entrance to the Shah Mosque

Shah Mosque in Isfahan

Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque

Also called the “Queen Mosque”, this smaller mosque was actually built by the ruling family as a private mosque and therefore has no minarets. A tunnel connects this mosque to the Ali Qapu, the royal palace across the square. See if you can spot the peacock at the center of the dome.

The magnificen dome of Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque

Ali Qapu Palace

The unusual architecture of the music room definitely makes Ali Qapu one the most unique places to visit in Iran. Overlooking Imam Square and facing Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Ali Qapu was built in the 16th century as a residence of the royal family. It looks pretty unassuming from the outside. But if you go the top floor, you’ll find the “music room” – a room with honeycomb vaulted ceiling with deep circular niches shaped like musical instruments.

The music room in Ali Qapu palace

What to Eat: Gaz

No visit to Isfahan is complete without trying gaz . Gaz is Persian nougat made with pistachios and rosewater, using the sap of the angebin plant which is native to the Isfahan region. It’s softer and gooey-er than regular nougats.

If you have more time in Isfahan:

Armenian Vank Church Having been to Georgia and Armenia, I didn’t find this Armenian church to be particularly interesting. However, the paintings inside are worth checking out. They depict the various tortures that Armenian saints had to endure and oh boy, these people got creative. The admission ticket is quite high (220,000 tomans).

Even though Yazd doesn’t have the kind of major architecture wonders like Shiraz or Isfahan, I enjoyed my time in Yazd immensely. I had a lot of fun exploring Yazd’s attractive old town. Yazd’s skyline is dominated badgir or windcatchers while the old town itself is a labyrinth of narrow alleys meandering through traditional mud-and-straw houses. One of these houses includes a working, public hammam (Mirza Reza Traditional Hamam).

Yazd was the center of Zoroastrian during Sassanid empire and still has a sizable Zoroastrian population. I knew nothing about Zoroastrian before my visit to Yazd and I’m always happy to learn something new. Morbid by nature, I found Zoroastrian burial rites absolutely fascinating (see Towers of Silence below).

Yazd Old Town

The best thing to do in Yazd is simply exploring its old town on your own feet. Head over to the rooftop of Art House or the Tourist Library – both located in Yazd historic old town – during sunset to find the best view of Yazd skyline.

My favorite thing to do in Yazd: End the day with some creative cocktails (sans alcohol of course – this is Iran after all) and a slice of homemade cake at one of the many rooftop bars in Yazd.

Yazd Grand Mosque

Eventually you’ll find your way to Yazd Grand Mosque. Not the grandest mosque I’ve seen in Iran, but its facade with the twin minarets is a striking sight indeed.

Top: Yazd skyline. Bottom: Yazd Grand Mosque

Towers of Silence

The circular structure on top of the rise is an ancient burial site of the Zoroastrian religion. Tradition dictates that the bodies of the dead are placed here, exposed to animals and the weather. Once picked clean, the bones were then collected in the ossuary pit at the center.

Even though this burial ritual is no longer practiced, you can still visit the complex and see where this used to take place. The Towers of Silence is a taxi-ride away from Yazd.

The Towers of Silence near Yazd

Amir Chakhmak Complex

The 15th century complex is especially stunning in the evening when each of its arched alcoves is lit by orange lighting. It’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Yazd.

Amir Chakhmaq Complex by Zenith210

Haj Khalifa Confectionery

While in Yazd, you have to visit Haj Khalifa Confectionery in Amir Chakhmaq Square. It’s a popular institution among sweet-loving Iranians. You can try the famous Iranian baklava pastries, ghotab, loze nârgil, and pashmak (candy floss). To be honest, I found every single thing I tasted here tooth-achingly sweet (generally I find Iranian desserts too sweet).

Shiraz is one of Iran’s highlights for many visitors due to its treasures of Persian architecture. It’s the birthplace of Iran’s most celebrated poet: Hafez. It’s also the birthplace of one the world’s most celebrated red wine: Syrah.

Pink Mosque

The sunlight filtering through the stained windows of the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque or Pink Mosque casts colorful patterns on the ground and makes this one of the most Instagrammed spots in Iran. Make sure you look up and appreciate the details and colors of the tileworks that gave the mosque its nickname.

It was beautiful for sure, but the vibe was definitely different here than with the other mosques. The scene could be chaotic at times with guards yelling at visitors to keep their headscarves on and Instagram would-be stars fighting over the best spots. It distracted from the beauty of the room.

The Instagram-famous pink mosque, Shiraz

Vakil Bazaar and Vakil Mosque

The main bazaar in Shiraz has beautiful courtyards, caravanserais, and hundreds of old shops selling all kinds of Persian rugs, spices, copper handicrafts, and antiques. One of the best spots to shop for souvenirs. Vakil Mosque that’s attached to the bazaar is also worth visiting for the interior decorations. The room with the arched ceilings and spiral columns was particularly photogenic.

Vakil Mosque in Shiraz

Tomb of Shah Cheragh

One of my travel mates in Turkmenistan said that the Shah Cheragh’s tomb was so beautiful she was moved to tears. The exquisite mirror work that covers every inch of the walls and ceiling of the tomb are the handicrafts of artisans of Shiraz. This place was simply stunning and must be seen to believe. Add it immediately to your list of places must visit in Iran. Entrance is free and english speaking guide is available for foreigners.

The stunning Shagh Cheragh tomb

Often visited as a daytrip from Shiraz, Persepolis was the ceremonial capital of Achaemenid Empire (500 BC). Great Persian kings such as Darius and Xerxes built palaces here. Alexander the Great attacked it. Nearby is Naqsh-e Rostam , the necropolis of the Achaemenid empire where you’ll find massive tombs cut high into the cliff face. This where the great kings of the empire were buried.

For architecture and history buffs, Persepolis should be on your list of Iran’s must see places.

Naqsh-e Rostam Necropolis (credit: Wikipedia)

Marhaloo Lake is a seasonal pink salt lake near Shiraz. The intensity of the color varies on the water level. I was told that in the spring time, close to summer it’s at its pinkest. During the summer and after a prolonged drought, there might not even be any water. We got lucky. This lake isn’t on our itinerary, but we drove past it and asked our driver if we could stop for a closer look. I’ve been to a pink beach in Indonesia , but this was the first pink lake I’d ever been to. So surreal!

Pink Lake near Shiraz

If you have more time in Shiraz:

Hafez Tomb and Eram Garden These two sites are often included in Shiraz itinerary. These places are quite nice but in my opinion are not worth the hefty admission price for foreigners. But your mileage might vary.

Margoon Waterfall One hour from Shiraz, you can find this 60m tall waterfall that lives up to its name (margoon means “snake” in Persian), slithering down the rocky walls in snake-like fashion.

Dasht-e Lut , is a large salt desert near Kerman. Here you’ll find giant alien-like formations formed by wind erosion, some of the tallest sand dunes in the world, and forgotten castles. It can be unbearably hot in the summer.

How to Visit: Plenty of 4×4 tours from Kerman, the nearest major town.

Lut Desert by Ninara

Other Notable Spots of Interests in Iran

Badab-e surt.

Travertine pools that’s not unlike Pamukkale in Turkey. Located in northern Iran in Mazandaran Province.

Qeshm Island

Qeshm is the largest island in Iran, located in the Strait of Hormuz. My guide kept telling me that I need to visit Qeshm island on my next trip to Iran. It’s a destination to visit in Iran for nature lovers because of its incredible landscapes. Sculpted canyons and swimming holes can be found in its interior while traditional Bandari villages dot its shores. Namakdan salt cave and Chahkouh Valley are a couple of the island’s most famous landmarks worth visiting.

Hormuz Island

Small and lightly inhabited (there’s only one village here: Hormuz), you’ll find pristine beaches and sleepy, laidback attitude. The island is known for its red-ochre colored sand that’s currently being mined and exported (sigh). The interior is full of colorful geological formations.

by Qeshmnil , licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Planning a Trip to Iran

Know before you go, is it safe to visit iran.

As a woman, I felt really safe walking the streets of Iran. Much safer than I do in San Francisco. I didn’t have to worry about petty crimes or unwanted attention. It was very liberating in a way. I wrote a long guide on visiting Iran as an American (with tips on how to dress, etc). Go check it out here .

Visa to Iran

Not to sugarcoat it, but getting a visa to Iran as an American was a long and tedious process. You will need to contact a travel agency to apply to the Ministry on your behalf. A day-by-day itinerary needs to be approved. A licensed guide is compulsory. Independent travels is strictly impossible. Don’t even think about it. Read the application process I had to go through here .

Recommended Pre-Trip Reading

• Lipstick Jihad – a memoir by an Iranian-American. I read this for the first time in college, this book and my Iranian roommate was how Iran entered my consciousness for the first time.
• Iran Awakening: A Memoir of Revolution and Hope – this is the story of an Iranian female lawyer fighting the regime on behalf of Canadian journalist – Zara Kazemi. This book was a tough read because of the subject and it stayed with me for a long time.
• I, Who Did Not Die – a true story set in the little known, but extremely brutal Iran-Iraq war in 1980’s.
• The Gift: Poems by Hafiz, the Great Sufi Master – you can’t visit Iran and not hear about Hafez, a much-beloved Persian poet who hailed from Shiraz. Iranian children learn about Hafiz in school and his works can be found in almost every Iranian home.

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Jill, this post really whets my appetite to go to Iran sooner than later. I mean, I’ve always wanted to go there, but I always think that Iran deserves at least two weeks, and I usually can’t take that much break from work — unless I quit the job. But this post of yours really makes me wonder if I should make a plan to go to Iran, rather than leaving it up to chances. Those are some stunning shots, by the way! The mosques in Iran are probably the most beautiful in the world.

Such a great post about my country, I enjoyed reading your experiences in our beautiful Iran, Iran is really safe now and very cheap.

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Best Places to Visit in Iran

Iran, a place of mesmerizing diversity, has a rich tapestry of natural and cultural wonders that attract visitors from all over the world. Nestled in the center of the Middle East, this lovely country has a plethora of tourist destinations that are as different as they are beautiful. Tehran, Yazd, Kashan, Mashhad, Kerman, Shiraz, Isfahan, and Qeshm Island are among the most popular tourist destinations for those who wonder where are the best places to visit in Iran.

These places provide pleasurable experiences for both domestic and international visitors. In this article, we will take a look at some of Iran’s most famous and must-see locations in popular cities. Here are the best places to visit in Iran !

Table of Contents

Golestan Palace Complex

The Golestan Palace Complex is a royal palace complex located in Tehran, Iran. This popular attraction is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and is one of the important landmarks in the city. Each of the buildings and gardens that make up the complex are representative of distinct periods in Iran’s past.

Another feature that makes the Golestan Complex so fascinating is that it not only bears ample witness to Iran’s historical and architectural legacy but also serves as an excellent laboratory for investigating the life and cultural transformation along with the change of regime. Golestan Complex Tehran Iran, is a popular destination for many travelers.

Milad Tower

Milad Tower is one of the tallest towers in the world, displaying Tehran’s modern architecture. The Milad Tower reaches a height of about 438 meters (1,400 feet). When it was finished in 2007, it was the world’s fourth-tallest tower.

One of the main attractions of Milad Tower is its observation deck, which offers panoramic views of Tehran and its surroundings. At 276 meters (906 feet), this deck is placed to give the visitor breathtaking vistas of the city against clear pink sunsets and purple evenings.

Azadi Tower

The Azadi Tower, also known as Freedom Tower or Borj-e Azadi, is a prominent landmark and a symbol of the city. Azadi Tower was the work of Iranian architect Hossein Amanat and was completed in 1971. It is a blend of modern and traditional climatic features.

Azadi Tower in Tehran

The design of the tower draws on the Achaemenid and Sassanid architectural styles for artistic inspiration; these are true reflections of the rich cultural heritage of Iran. Azadi Tower has long been a symbol for the Iranian people. The word “Azadi” is “freedom” in Persian, and the tower was built to commemorate the 2,500th anniversary of the Persian Empire.

National Museum of Iran

The National Museum of Iran in Tehran is the largest and most prestigious museum in the world. A wide variety of antiques and artifacts are displayed in this museum. The exhibits at the National Museum of Iran represent various periods of ancient Iranian history, particularly the Achaemenid, Parthian, and Sassanid eras, and showcase the rich history and legacy of the Iranian people.

The main displayed items at the National Museum of Iran include monumental sculptures, reliefs, minor objects in precious metals, and ceramics, illustrating the art, culture, and customs of ancient civilizations of Iran. This museum is a must-see destination for history buffs.

Naqsh-e Jahan Square

Naqsh-e Jahan Square stands as a monument to Isfahan’s architectural splendor and cultural heritage. Naqshe-e Jahan Square is the symbol of Isfahan and is often referred to as Imam Square. It is among the largest plazas ever constructed, surrounded by examples of stunning Persian design.

Visitors gaze upon ornate façades and soaring minarets, marveling at the harmony between grand scale and grace. UNESCO deemed the square worthy of protection for its significance in preserving Iran’s contributions to art and history.

Naqsh e Jahan Square in Isfahan

Any tour of the country would be remiss without pausing in Naqsh-e Jahan Square to appreciate its exquisite beauty and learn from its enduring testament to Persian civilization.

Vank Cathedral

Vank Cathedral , officially called the Holy Savior Cathedral, sits prominently in Isfahan as both a religious site and a cultural landmark of significance. The Armenian church welcomes many visitors with its impressive architecture and intricate designs, serving as one of the finest examples of Armenian spiritual life within the nation.

Housed within the cathedral complex is a museum containing invaluable relics that convey the community’s deep religious devotion and artistic accomplishments through numerous manuscripts, artifacts, and paintings from generations past.

Both the museum and cathedral itself offer insights into the rich cultural heritage of Isfahan’s Armenians, preserving their history for future generations through prime artifacts from Iran’s Armenian population.

Si O Se Pol Isfahan

Si O Se Pol , also known as the Allahverdi Khan Bridge, is a magnificent double-deck bridge that spans across the flowing Zayandeh River in Isfahan. Constructed during the 17th century under the supervision of famed architect Allahverdi Khan, it exhibits exemplary Persian architectural mastery through its blending of functionality and aesthetic beauty, which makes it one of the best places to visit in Iran.

Sio Se Pol Bridge in Isfahan

The bridge stretches approximately 297 meters in its crossing of the river, supported by an impressive series of 33 interconnected arches carved with intricate details. These elegant arches provide sturdy stability to the bridge’s twin decks while creating a spectacular visual effect.

Amir Chakhmaq Complex

The Amir Chakhmaq Complex in Yazd is an architectural masterpiece with a history dating back to the 15th century. It consists of several structures and features that have an important cultural significance to the Yazdi people. The complex is situated around a large public square known as Amir Chakhmaq Square, a location where people gather every day to enjoy their evenings.

Moreover, the complex combines religious, social, and commercial elements and offers a glimpse into the vibrant history and traditions of Yazd city. The Amir Chakhmaq Complex continues to be an important cultural site and a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

DowlatAbad Garden

Yazd’s DowlatAbad Garden is another beautiful attraction of this city. It is a garden that has been designed in the Persian traditional design. The Dowlat-Abad Garden is famous for its symmetry and attention to detail. With its segmented parts and water elements, the garden exemplifies the concept of “Chahar Bagh” (four-fold garden).

The rich vegetation, bright flowers, and tall cypress trees covering the garden present a peaceful and attractive environment for those who are seeking peace. The garden is centered on a large rectangular pool, clearly reflecting the beauty of the trees, flowers, and mansion all around it. This all make this garden one of the top places to visit in Iran.

Arg-e Bam (Bam Citadel)

Bam Citadel can date back to over 2,000 years ago. Believed to have been built during the Parthian Empire (3rd century BC) and later expanded in the Sassanian period (3rd to 7th century AD), this city served as a strategic trade and defense center in its region. Bam was located along the ancient Silk Road, a main trade route connecting east and west.

Bam Citadel in Kerman

In addition to being a fortress, the citadel was an urban center with people living there. Residential areas, mosques, schools, public baths, and the bazaar were a part of social and cultural life within the walls of Bam Citadel. Today, the reminiscences of the Bam Citadel have turned this destination into a beautiful tourist attraction.

Imam Reza Holy Shrine

One of the most sacred sites for Muslims around the globe is the Imam Reza Holy Shrine, home to the burial place of Imam Reza, the eighth Imam of Shia Muslims. Visiting this shrine is one of the top things to do in Mashhad . Each year, this holy site in the Iranian city of Mashhad welcomes millions of pilgrims seeking blessings, prayer, and a deeper connection with the revered Imam.

For those journeying from distant lands, the shrine represents an opportunity for spiritual reflection in the presence of the departed Imam. Within its walls lies Imam Reza’s physical remains and the hope of millions who come calling, hoping to feel closeness to someone regarded as an exemplar of Islamic virtue.

Takht-e Jamshīd (Persepolis)

Takht-e Jamshid , commonly referred to as Persepolis, was an ancient ceremonial capital in the mountains near the city of Shiraz. Founded during the reign of Darius the Great, the kingdom reached its peak under successive Achaemenid rulers until its downfall in 330 BC. Renowned for architectural wonders and majestic structures, Persepolis sprawled across 125,000 square meters and housed various palatial complexes, audience halls, private living quarters, and ceremonial spaces, all constructed of stone.

Persepolis or Takht-e Jamshid in Shiraz

Intricately carved reliefs and elaborate decorative elements have adorned the monumental buildings within the extensive complex. While Darius first established Persepolis as an imperial capital, later emperors such as Xerxes and Artaxerxes also greatly expanded the site, leaving behind structures of astonishing scale and sophistication that still impress visitors today with their grandeur, though little remains of their once magnificent splendor.

Eram Garden

Renowned for its picturesque vistas and stunning views, Eram Garden adorns itself with lush greenery, vibrant blooms, and an assortment of trees—among them, towering cypresses reaching for the heavens and fragrant orange trees wafting their scent on the breeze.

Being one of Shiraz’s most celebrated attractions, Eram Garden has established itself as a hub for travelers from near and far. It is one of the best places to visit in Iran. Strategically situated near other notable sites, such as the Tomb of Hafez and the magnificent Nasir al-Mulk Mosque , the garden is easily accessible.

Shah Cheragh Shrine

The Shah Cheragh Shrine is a sacred and important holy place for Shia Muslims around the world. The shrine, which translates as “King of Light,” includes the tombs of two brothers, Ahmad and Muhammad, sons of the seventh Shia Imam, Musa al-Kadhim.

The shrine complex consists of multiple structures and courtyards and is of immense cultural, architectural, and religious significance. The Shah-e-Cheragh Shrine is one of Iran’s holiest Shia pilgrimage locations that attracts lots of visitors yearly.

Vakil Complex

The Vakil Complex is a historical complex found in Shiraz, Iran. It was constructed during the Zand dynasty in the 18th century and stands as a tribute to the architectural and cultural achievements of the time.

Vakil Mosque in Shiraz

The complex includes several important structures, such as the Vakil Mosque , Vakil Bazaar , and Vakil Bath.

Kooh Sangi Park, Mashhad

Kooh Sangi Park’s far-off location from Mashhad is filled with a landscape of mountains and hills. The park is quite large and provides a serene and natural environment for its visitors. With its incomparable natural beauty and panoramic settings, Kooh Sangi Park is a perfect place for photography and is a very popular destination. During a visit to the park, there are gorgeous sites, nature scenes, and keepsakes of memorable experiences.

Valley of Stars, Qeshm

One of the best places to visit in Iran is the Valley of Stars on Qeshm Island. Qeshm Island is located just off the southern coast of Iran and is the biggest island in the Persian Gulf. The Valley of Stars on Qeshm Island is a famous tourist destination and one of the top things to do on Qeshm Island . The scenery is amazing and odd in Star Valley. The tall granite formations that have inspired such reactions, together with their unique patterns and textures, create a kind of “surreal” atmosphere. The valley’s strange beauty also comes from the combination of the sun’s rays and shadows.

Hengam Island, Qeshm

Situated not far from Qeshm Island, Hengam Island is a small but magnificent holiday island. Hengam Island offers the special opportunity to see dolphins in the deep sea.

Hengam Island in Iran

The sea around Hengam is home to a large community of Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins. Hengam Island has mangrove forests as well, like those found on Qeshm Island. Don’t forget to visit Hengam Island Qeshm for a lovely experience near the Persian Gulf.

Hormuz Island

Known as Hormuz or Jazireh-ye Hormoz in Persian, Iran’s Hormuz Island is a mere dot on the map, yet this insignificant point has both cultural and geological significance. In the long history of Hormuz Island, there are many stories.

It was an important port for trade and commerce in medieval times and the single major port for the maritime trade between the Indian Ocean and the Persian Gulf. Located adjacent to the Qeshm Salt Domes, Hormuz Island is another geological wonder.

Shazdeh Mahan Garden

The magnificent Persian garden Prince Mahan Garden, or Shazdeh Mahan Garden , is situated in Mahan City, within Iran’s Kerman province. It is one of the best places to visit in Iran. Shazdeh Mahan Garden was constructed in the 19th century during the Qajar dynasty. Mohammad Hasan Khan Qajar, the region’s governor, commissioned it as a private garden and dwelling for his son.

The garden is an example of the architectural style of that period. A standout feature of Shazdeh Mahan Garden is its terraced layout. This garden is situated on a highly inclined plain, leading visitors from the entrance to the highest point of the garden by a series of stepped terraces.

Shahdad Desert

Shahdad Desert is a vast and mesmerizing desert. Shahdad desert is the hottest location on earth, which is situated within the Lut desert of Iran in Kerman. Shahdad desert is the ideal destination for experiencing off-road traveling with 4WD cars, and it offers scenic views for photographers and nature lovers.

Kalut Shahdad Desert

Shahdad desert is divided into three sections: Green Section, Orange, and Red Section. Red and Orange sections are prohibited and is recommended to visit these sections with a tour guide.

Tabatabei House, Kashan

One of the best places to visit in Iran is Tabatabaei House, a public mansion situated in Kashan City. This house is one of the most outstanding examples of classic Persian residential architecture. It is famous for its exquisite design elements and elaborate decorations.

The great thing about the Tabatabae is its large courtyard, as well as its garden. In the center of the courtyard, there is a beautiful fountain which completes the beauty of this mansion. Tabatabaei House has undergone many restorations to maintain its authentic beauty and architectural integrity. Today, Tabatabaei House is one of the popular attractions of Kashan.

Fin Garden Kashan

Fin Garden of Kashan is a must-go destination for tourists and travelers alike. The design of Fin Garden follows conventional Persian garden principles, such as symmetry, water features, and harmonizing with nature.

There are four quadrants in the garden, and each has its special attributes and functions. In fact, Fin Garden is noted for its magnificent and ancient cypress trees, some of which could be over 400 years old.

Fin Garden in Kashan

The tall and slender cypress trees add height and grace to the garden area. There are walkways to guide visitors through the garden. Moreover, the garden has seats for resting comfortably in the shade.

Borujerdi House, Kashan

Another historical mansion of Kashan is the Borujerdi House, also known as Khaneh Borujerdi, one of the best places to visit in Iran. The mansion incorporates traditional windcatchers, known as “badgirs,” which are architectural elements designed to harness natural ventilation and cooling.

Borujerdi House is a great example of Persian-Islamic design. Borujerdi House is characterized by a symmetrical layout and it carries a historical and cultural significance for Iranian people.

If you are interested in Iranian old designs and want to learn more about the history of this country through its design elements, Borujerdi house is a must-visit attraction in Kashan.

Final Words

Iran is renowned for having diverse, captivating attractions that draw visitors from every part of the world. This enchanting land presents a variety of tourist destinations, every one of them as beautiful as the next. Among the favorites are Tehran, Yazd, Kashan, Mashhad, Kerman, Shiraz, Isfahan, and Qeshm Island.

If you ever come to visit Iran and want to discover the stunning destinations this country has to offer, make sure not to miss out on the mentioned attractions.

Are you planning to  travel to Iran ? Check out our  Iran tours .

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Iran Travel: The Complete Guide You’ve Been Waiting For!

Table of Contents

Welcome, fellow explorers and adventure seekers! If you’ve ever dreamt of embarking on a journey to a land where ancient history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality converge, you’re in for a treat. In this Iran Travel Guide, we’re about to unravel the secrets of Iran, a country that has captivated the hearts of travelers for centuries.

Whether you’re considering Iran Travel as your next trip or you’ve already booked your ticket, our aim is to equip you with the knowledge you need to make your trip an unforgettable experience, from understanding the intricacies of obtaining an Iran visa to managing your finances while in the country, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also delve into the nuances of Iranian etiquette and dressing codes, ensuring that you navigate this beautiful nation with grace and respect.

So, get ready to embark on an enriching journey through the enchanting realms of Iran. Pack your curiosity, an open heart, and a sense of adventure because Iran is waiting to reveal its treasures to you. Let’s begin this odyssey together!

Iran Travel Guide: Why Visiting Iran?

Visiting Iran is an absolute must for any adventurous traveler! With its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm-hearted locals, Iran offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Imagine wandering through ancient cities like Isfahan, where stunning mosques and palaces adorned with intricate tile work transport you to a bygone era.

Don’t miss the mesmerizing beauty of the deserts, where the sand dunes seem to stretch on forever under a sky painted with stars. And, of course, the delicious cuisine will tantalize your taste buds with aromatic kebabs, fragrant saffron rice, and sweet baklava. But what truly makes Iran special is the warmth and hospitality of its people, who are eager to share their culture and stories with visitors. Here we listed a few reasons why to visit Iran:

1. Embrace the Timeless History

Iran boasts an ancient civilization that dates back thousands of years, and its historical significance is awe-inspiring. From the magnificent ruins of Persepolis , a UNESCO World Heritage site, to the grand Golestan Palace in Tehran , each structure is a testament to the country’s glorious past. Wander through winding alleys of historic cities like Isfahan and Yazd, where intricate architecture and the echoes of the past transport you to a bygone era.

2. Immerse in Vibrant Culture

Iran’s culture is a tapestry of diverse influences, from Persian, Arab, and Turkish to Central Asian and European. Experience the warmth of its people as they welcome you with open arms and indulge you with their hospitality. Marvel at the vivid colors of traditional clothing and savor the flavors of Iranian cuisine , renowned for its aromatic spices and delicately prepared dishes.

3. Mesmerizing Landscapes

Venture beyond the cities, and Iran unfolds its breathtaking natural beauty. From the lush greenery of the northern forests  (Hyrcanian Forests) to the stunning deserts of Dasht-e Kavir and Dasht-e Lut , each landscape is a masterpiece of nature’s artistry. Don’t miss the serene beauty of Mount Damavand or the otherworldly Kaluts, where wind-sculpted sand dunes create a surreal landscape.

4. UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Iran is home to an impressive array of UNESCO World Heritage Sites , and exploring them is like traveling back in time. Discover the ancient city of Bam and its adobe citadel, the awe-inspiring ancient aqueducts of Shushtar , and the magnificent Armenian Monastic Ensembles of Iran. Each site offers a unique glimpse into the country’s diverse heritage and architectural brilliance.

5. Dazzling Art and Architecture

Iran is an art lover’s paradise. Delve into the mesmerizing world of Persian carpets , renowned for their intricate designs and craftsmanship. Admire the mesmerizing beauty of Islamic architecture in mosques like Nasir al-Mulk in Shiraz , where colorful stained glass windows cast a rainbow of hues on the floors.

6. Experience Festivals and Traditions

Plan your visit to coincide with one of Iran’s vibrant festivals, and you’ll be treated to an immersive cultural experience. Witness the exuberant celebrations of Nowruz , the Persian New Year, or be part of the spiritual fervor during Ashura . These festivals offer a window into the soul of Iran’s traditions and values.

7. Warmth and Hospitality of Locals

Iranians are known for their exceptional warmth and hospitality towards visitors. Prepare to be embraced with open hearts and enjoy a genuine connection with the locals. The enriching interactions you’ll have will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on your travel memories.

8. Safe and Welcoming Environment

Contrary to misconceptions, Iran is a safe country to visit. The people are warm and friendly, always ready to assist travelers. While you should exercise usual caution as with any foreign destination, Iran’s reputation for safety is well-deserved.

9. Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

If you yearn for unique experiences, Iran has plenty to offer. Explore the enigmatic village of Masuleh, nestled in the Alborz Mountains, where houses are built into the mountainside. Trek through the lush valleys of Golestan National Park, spotting rare wildlife along the way. These off-the-beaten-path adventures will leave you with unforgettable memories.

10. Photography Paradise

Photographers will find Iran to be a haven of visually stunning landscapes and architectural marvels. From the colorful bazaars to the ancient ruins, every corner of Iran is a potential masterpiece waiting to be captured through your lens.

Persia or Iran: Are They the Same?

Have you ever wondered if Persia and Iran are the same thing? They’re often used interchangeably, but there’s an incredible history to each.

Persia refers to the ancient Persian Empire , which existed around 550 BC to 330 BC. Persia was famous for its amazing art, culture, and architecture back then. It left a big mark on the Middle East and beyond. Today, we use “Persia” to talk about this old kingdom and its impact.

In 1935, the country officially switched its name from Persia to Iran , which means “land of the Aryans.” This change was meant to highlight Iran’s deep ties to the Aryan people who came to the region thousands of years ago. Nowadays, we use “Iran” to talk about the modern-day Islamic Republic of Iran in the Middle East.

Even though people often use Persia and Iran interchangeably, it’s cool to know the history behind each name. By learning about the fascinating history of Persia, you can better appreciate the rich culture and heritage of this beautiful country.

When we dive into Persia’s awesome history and how it influenced the world, we can start to really admire Iran’s amazing culture and heritage. So, let’s explore and learn!

Can Everyone Travel to Iran?

Iran has become a popular travel destination that attracts wanderers from all over the world thanks to its rich history, captivating culture, and breathtaking landscapes. However, some prospective travelers may have lingering questions about whether everyone can travel to Iran. Let’s answer that question!

The answer to whether everyone can travel to Iran is a resounding yes ! Iran, in recent years, has taken significant steps to facilitate travel for visitors from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. The Iranian government, recognizing the potential of tourism and the desire of travelers to explore its wonders, has streamlined visa procedures, making it easier for tourists to obtain necessary travel permits.

While some nationalities can enjoy visa-free entry for short stays, most visitors can apply for a visa through a simple process. The option of a visa on arrival at major airports has also been extended to many nationalities, further enhancing accessibility. These measures reflect Iran’s commitment to being a welcoming and inclusive travel destination. We will talk about getting Iran visa in detail later in this article.

Safety and security are crucial considerations for travelers, and Iran stands as a country with a relatively low crime rate. Misconceptions surrounding its geopolitical situation often overshadow the reality on the ground. The Iranian people are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness towards visitors, making travelers feel welcomed and safe throughout their journey.

Cultural sensitivity plays a significant role in ensuring a smooth travel experience in Iran. The country has a rich cultural heritage, and respecting local customs is essential. While the dress code is more conservative compared to Western norms, adhering to it when visiting public places and religious sites is not only a sign of respect but also fosters positive interactions with the locals. If you’re interested in reading about someone’s experience traveling to Iran with To Iran Tour, we have a fantastic travelogue from one of our guests below. It’s definitely worth checking out!

Iran Travel Story: A Memorable 15-year-old’s Wanderlust Through Iran

Iran is making strides in improving accessibility for people with disabilities. Although there may still be challenges to overcome, many public places, hotels, and tourist attractions have taken steps to accommodate travelers with mobility challenges. Efforts are continuously being made to make Iran a more inclusive destination for travelers of all abilities.

When traveling to Iran, some people may worry about language barriers since English may not be commonly spoken. However, this should not discourage anyone from discovering this fascinating country. The Iranian locals are renowned for their kind-heartedness and eagerness to help tourists communicate, often using hand gestures and basic English phrases. Additionally, many young Iranians speak English as a second language, and it is taught in high schools.

Financial transactions and currency exchange are essential aspects of travel planning. Iran’s official currency is the Iranian Rial (IRR) . While international credit cards may not be widely accepted, travelers can use US dollars or euros and exchange them at official exchange offices or banks. Carrying sufficient cash is advisable, especially when visiting more remote areas where ATMs may not be readily available.

Iran has its unique cultural norms, particularly regarding gender segregation and LGBTQ+ rights. Travelers need to approach these considerations with cultural sensitivity and respect. Understanding and adhering to local customs can create a harmonious travel experience and foster positive interactions with the local community.

Healthcare is a crucial aspect of any travel experience. Iran boasts a well-developed healthcare system with competent medical professionals. While the likelihood of medical emergencies is low, having comprehensive travel insurance is recommended to ensure peace of mind throughout the journey.

To sum up, Iran has made significant strides in improving its travel accessibility in recent years, making it a warm and inclusive destination for visitors from all over the globe. With simplified visa processes, increased safety measures, and a commitment to meeting diverse needs, Iran warmly welcomes travelers. Adapting to local customs, respecting cultural sensitivities, and being open to new experiences will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience in this captivating country where history, culture, and natural beauty unite seamlessly.

Thank you for joining me on this journey through the historical tapestry of Persia and Iran. Now, we want to extend a personal invitation to each one of you. If you’ve been captivated by the allure of Iran and are considering a visit, or even if you’re just curious to learn more, I invite you to explore our Iran travel guide. It’s a labor of love, crafted to share the magic of Iran with fellow travelers. From general steps to plan your travel to Iran to everything you need to know about Iran visa that might confuse you, our guide promises to be your trusted companion on your Iranian adventure.

How to Plan Visting Iran? (12 Steps)

Traveling to Iran, with its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, requires meticulous planning to ensure a smooth and fulfilling journey. Follow this step-by-step guide to efficiently plan your trip to this captivating destination.

Step 1: Research and Itinerary

Start by researching Iran’s diverse attractions and destinations . Identify the places you wish to visit and create a detailed itinerary. Consider the duration of your trip, the activities you want to engage in, and the must-see landmarks you don’t want to miss. You can check ToIranTour packages and customize your desired tour itinerary.

Step 2: Visa and Travel Documentation

Check the visa requirements for your nationality. Most visitors can obtain a tourist visa for Iran through the Iranian embassy or consulate in their home country. Alternatively, you can opt for a visa on arrival at major airports or use of visa services of an authorized tour operator/travel agency. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. There is more information about getting Iran visa in the rest of the article and also on our blog .

Step 3: Best Time to Visit

Consider the best time to visit Iran based on your preferences. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer mild temperatures and pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the country. Also, the best time to visit depends on the tour and activities. However, each season has its unique charm, so choose according to your interests.

Step 4: Cultural Awareness

Familiarize yourself with Iranian customs and etiquette to show respect for local traditions. Note that women should wear modest clothing that covers the arms, legs, and hair when in public places. Understanding and embracing the culture will enhance your travel experience.

Step 5: Language and Communication

While English is not widely spoken, the Iranian people are known for their warm hospitality. Learn a few basic Persian phrases to facilitate communication and connect with the locals. This will enrich your interactions during your journey.

Step 6: Accommodation and Transportation

Book your accommodation in advance to secure the best options that suit your budget and preferences. Iran offers a range of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Plan your transportation within the country, whether by domestic flights, trains, or buses, to efficiently navigate between destinations. You can check the accommodation and transportation with a local tour operator. 

Step 7: Health and Travel Insurance

Prioritize your health and well-being by consulting a healthcare professional for any required vaccinations or health precautions before traveling to Iran. Additionally, consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to provide coverage in case of unexpected medical emergencies or trip disruptions.

Step 8: Currency and Money Matters

Familiarize yourself with Iran’s currency, the Iranian Rial (IRR), and its exchange rates. While credit cards are not widely accepted, carrying sufficient cash is advisable, especially when traveling to remote areas where ATMs may not be readily available. Also, read about travel costs in Iran to plan accordingly.

Step 9: Safety and Security

Iran is considered a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate and a welcoming local population. However, exercise standard safety precautions and stay informed about local conditions to ensure a worry-free journey.

Step 10: Respect for Religious Sites in Iran

Iran is home to numerous significant religious sites. Show respect when visiting mosques, shrines, and other places of worship by adhering to dress codes and rules for visitors.

Step 11: Iran Local Customs and Traditions

Respect local customs and traditions to foster positive interactions with the Iranian people. Greetings, gestures, and dining etiquette -which we are going to talk about later in this article – may differ from your home country, so be open-minded and willing to embrace cultural differences.

Step 12: Packing Essentials

Pack appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions and cultural considerations. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a reusable water bottle for staying hydrated.

DIY or Tour for Traveling to Iran? Our Iran Travel Guide Perspective

When you’re thinking about having an awesome trip to Iran, you’ve got to decide if you want to plan everything yourself or join a guided tour . Each option has its own good and not-so-good points, so it’s important to pick what suits you and your travel goals best. In this comparison, we’ll look at the perks of DIY travel to Iran or going on a tour for visiting Iran. We’ll highlight why it’s a great idea and show you why tour services are valuable.

DIY (Do-It-Yourself) Travel to Iran

• Freedom and Flexibility: DIY travel offers the freedom to create a personalized itinerary, exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations at your own pace. It caters to adventurous spirits who relish the thrill of independent exploration.
• Cost Control: Traveling independently allows budget-conscious travelers to choose accommodations, transportation, and dining options that align with their financial preferences.
• Authenticity in Interactions: With DIY travel, you have the opportunity to interact with locals on a more personal level, leading to genuine cultural experiences and connections.

Weaknesses:

• Logistical Challenges: Planning transportation, accommodations, and activities can be time-consuming and potentially overwhelming, especially in Iran with language barriers and unfamiliar customs.
• Navigating Language Barriers: English is not widely spoken in Iran and this will lead to communication challenges in certain situations.
• Cultural Awareness: Researching and adhering to local customs and etiquette may require extra effort to ensure respectful interactions.

Travel to Iran by Tour

• Reasonable Pricing: Contrary to common misconceptions, tours to Iran often offer excellent value for money, including a comprehensive package of services and experiences at a reasonable cost.
• Local Knowledge: Tour guides possess extensive knowledge of Iran’s history, culture, and landmarks, providing enriching insights and context to enhance your understanding of the destination.
• Close Connections with Locals: Tour operators often have well-established relationships with local communities, facilitating authentic encounters with Iranians and unlocking hidden gems inaccessible to DIY travelers.
• Awareness of Subtleties: Experienced tour guides are attuned to cultural nuances, ensuring that travelers navigate social interactions with grace and sensitivity.
• Authentic Experiences: Tours curate experiences that offer a balance between must-see landmarks and off-the-beaten-path wonders, providing a more authentic and immersive travel experience. Since Iran is a less-known destination, this issue becomes more important.
• Fixed Itineraries: Tours operate on pre-planned itineraries, which may not cater to individual preferences for spontaneity and exploration. To solve this problem, you can use individual and customized tours. ToIranTour can help you in this matter.
• Group Dynamic: Traveling with a group may limit personal freedom and require compromise on specific preferences. However, using the services of tour operators who are committed to organizing tours with small groups can solve this problem to a large extent.

While both DIY travel and guided tours have their perks, let’s talk about why you might want to consider taking an Iran tour. Tours in Iran are like having a friendly local show you all the best stuff. They know the coolest places, the tastiest food, and the most interesting stories.

When you join a tour, you don’t need to worry about all the nitty-gritty details of planning. The tour guides take care of everything, so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Plus, they know all the ins and outs of Iran’s beautiful landscapes, so you won’t miss a thing.

But the best part? You get to connect with the local folks, discover hidden gems, and dive deep into Iran’s rich history and culture. It’s an adventure you won’t forget! So, if you’re looking for a stress-free and amazing way to explore Iran, consider joining a tour .

How Can I Buy Iran Tours?

To make sure your trip is fantastic and easy, you need to think about a few important things when choosing your tour. We’re here to help you with that. Check out these key factors to find the perfect tour for your travel to Iran:

1. Attractiveness of the Itinerary

Examine the tour itinerary closely to determine its appeal and alignment with your interests. A well-crafted itinerary should encompass a balance of must-see attractions and off-the-beaten-path gems, offering a comprehensive exploration of Iran’s diverse landscape. Look for unique experiences, cultural encounters, and opportunities for authentic interactions with local communities.

2. Licensed Tour Operator

Verify whether the tour operator is licensed and accredited by relevant authorities. A licensed operator adheres to specific standards, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, customer protection, and quality of services. This validation offers peace of mind and enhances the reliability of the tour.

3. Right Price vs. Misleading Pricing

Price is a crucial consideration, but it should not be the sole determining factor. Be cautious of tours that offer significantly lower prices than competitors, as they may compromise on the quality of services and experiences. Compare the inclusions of each tour to assess its true value and avoid being misled by seemingly inexpensive options.

4. Customer Support

Good customer support is integral to a satisfying travel experience. Look for a tour operator who is responsive to inquiries, provides detailed information, and is attentive to your needs and preferences. A reliable tour operator should be readily available to address any concerns before, during, and after your journey.

5. Communication with the Tour Operator

Efficient and clear communication with the tour operator is vital for a seamless travel experience. Ensure your Iranian tour operator is accessible through various communication channels, such as email, phone, or chat. Prompt responses and transparent communication demonstrate the operator’s commitment to customer satisfaction.

6. Group Size and Dynamics

Consider the group size of the tour and how it aligns with your preferences. Smaller groups offer a more intimate experience, while larger groups may foster camaraderie with fellow travelers. Choose a group size that complements your travel style.

By picking a tour that matches your interests , you can have an incredible adventure exploring Iran’s history, culture, and beautiful natural sights. So, get ready to discover the magic of Iran and enjoy every moment of your unforgettable journey!

Local Tour Operator or International Tour Operator?

When you’re planning your trip to discover the amazing attractions of Iran, you have two choices: you can either go with a local tour company or an international one. Each of these options has its own good sides and not-so-good sides, and they’re better suited for different kinds of travelers. In this comparison, we’ll focus on why using a local tour company can be a great idea. We’ll talk about what they’re really good at and how they can make your travel experience even more special.

Local Tour Operator

• Reasonable Pricing: Local tour operators usually have great prices because they really know the local scene. They can talk with suppliers and get good deals, often saving you a lot of money – up to 80-100% less than international tour operators. One reason is that local operators have lower taxes. On the flip side, many international tour companies team up with locals to run their tours. When they add an extra layer like an intermediary, costs go up, and so does the price for you.
• Local Knowledge: Utilizing the expertise of a local tour operator grants travelers access to a wealth of insider knowledge. Local operators possess an in-depth understanding of Iran’s history, culture, and attractions, allowing for enriching insights and personalized recommendations.
• Close Connections with Locals: Local tour operators have well-established relationships with local communities, leading to meaningful cultural interactions and authentic experiences that might not be possible with international operators. Local tour operators are attuned to cultural nuances and customs, ensuring that travelers navigate social interactions with respect and grace, leading to more immersive and respectful experiences.
• Flexible Itineraries: Local operators can offer more flexibility in tailoring itineraries to individual preferences, allowing travelers to focus on specific interests and personalize their journey.
• Unknown brand and trust: Naturally, international tour operators have a more well-known brand, and it is easier to trust them. Of course, you can trust local tour operators who have an official license and also have good performance in their previous services. On the other hand, you can book your tour with just a small deposit.

International Tour Operator

• Global Expertise: International tour operators often have a wider network of destinations and resources, offering comprehensive tour packages that cover multiple countries or regions.
• Ease of Booking: International operators usually have user-friendly websites and customer service in various languages, making booking and communication more accessible for a diverse clientele. 
• Higher Costs: International tour operators may have higher overheads and administrative expenses, which can be reflected in the pricing of their tours, making them comparatively more expensive.
• Limited Local Insights: While international operators offer broad coverage, their understanding of the local culture and customs in specific destinations may not be as deep as that of local operators.

Are you having trouble with the Iran visa application process? You’re not alone. Getting a visa for Iran can be tricky for many travelers. It’s important to determine if you’re eligible and what rules you need to follow.

Generally, visiting Iran needs a visa, except for a few countries that can travel to Iran visa-free. There are some countries that can get their visa on arrival, but some countries are not eligible for Iran visa on arrival, and they must get their visa before their trip (which normally takes about 3 to 7 days to get your visa). There are some countries that don’t need any visa for visiting Iran. Keep reading to find out which group you belong to.

To get your visa, you can go to Iran’s embassy in your country, or apply for your Iran visa online , or even easier, use an authorized tour operator to do the process for you.

For some countries like the US, the UK, and Canada , things might be more complicated. Their governments don’t have good relationships with Iran’s government, which can make getting a visa even harder. Right now, there’s no Iranian embassy in the US.

Don’t let this process stop you from exploring the great things Iran has to offer. With some planning and looking into things, you can make the visa application go smoothly. Make sure you know what your nationality needs and give yourself enough time.

Even though getting a visa can be tough, Iran is an amazing place to visit. There are ancient cities with beautiful buildings, delicious food, and friendly people who will make you feel welcome. So, don’t let the visa process hold you back. Start planning your trip to Iran today, and To Iran Tour can help you make getting your visa easier .

How to Get an Iran Visa on Arrival?

Feeling a bit stressed about getting your visa to Iran? Well, here’s some good news! If you’re from one of 180 countries, you might not need to stress too much.

Starting from February 14, 2016, Iran’s Ministry announced something cool. They said that at their airports, they can give 30-day visas to people from those 180 countries. This makes things super simple if you want to visit Iran and see all its amazing stuff.

But hold on a second! Not everyone from those 180 countries can just show up and get a visa. It might depend on where you’re from, and there could be some rules you need to follow. Before you pack your bags for Iran, make sure to check what you need to do based on where you’re from.

If you’re allowed to get an Iran visa on arrival, you can do it at different airports, like Tehran Imam Khomeini Airport (IKA), Mashad Airport, Shiraz Airport, and more. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

• Answer some questions about your Iran trip,
• Show them where you’re staying (like a hotel reservation),
• Share a copy of your travel insurance,
• Prove you have a return flight ticket

By keeping yourself informed and being careful, you can have a great and safe trip to Iran!

Iran Visa Requirements: Best Guide 2023

Travel to Iran Without a Visa

There are 14 countries in 2023 that can visit Iran without any visa at all. These countries include Turkey, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Malaysia, Oman, Venezuela, China (for 21 days), Hong Kong, Macau, Egypt, Armenia, Lebanon, Bolivia, and Syria. To read more about Iran travel without a visa, read the article below:

Travel to Iran Without a Visa in 2024: Your Ultimate Guide

Non-eligible Nationalities for Iran Visa on Arrival

It’s important to know who can get a visa when they arrive in Iran. If you’re from countries like Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Colombia, India, Iraq, Jordan, Pakistan, Somalia, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, you can’t get a visa on arrival.

If that’s the case for you, don’t worry! You can still get a visa in a few different ways. You can go to the Iranian embassy in your home country, apply online, or ask an authorized tour operator to help you out , which is the easiest option.

How to Get an Iran Visa; A Complete Guide

What is the Iran Visa Authorization Code

This code is necessary for everyone who wants to apply for an Iran visa and serves as a determining factor for your visa application’s approval.

For those who plan to travel in a group, the tour operator will generally process the visa process and get the authorization code.

For solo travelers or those who don’t have a tour agent, ToIranTour can be a reliable option that offers essential travel services for visiting Iran. Alternatively, you can source an Iranian travel agency or seek direction from the embassy where you plan to obtain your visa.

When applying for the Authorisation Code, you’ll need to specify the embassy or airport where you’ll be processing your visa (unless you’re American, Canadian, or British because Iran doesn’t have embassies there). This can be a bit challenging for those traveling without solid plans or those who plan to visit multiple cities in Iran. It’s wise to choose an embassy in a city you’re likely to fly into Iran from, taking into account the processing time required for your visa application.

Remember, the Authorization Code isn’t your visa . It doesn’t guarantee you’ll get one. Once you have the code, you have to collect your visa label at the embassy/Iranian airport within three months . It’s a good idea to apply well ahead of your trip to handle any delays or issues. So, by getting the Authorization Code and applying for your visa early, you can have a smooth and fun trip to Iran.

Iran Tourist Visa Cost

When planning to obtain an Iran tourist visa, it’s important to budget for the costs of the visa. The cost of the visa service varies depending on the agency, usually with an administration fee of 30 to 50 euros, unless booked along with a tour package.

To Iran Tour offers the most affordable service for this situation, and they even have promotions where it can be free. Plus, if you book a tour with To Iran Tour , you won’t have to pay for the visa service.

However, the price of an Iran tourist visa depends on your nationality and the embassy where you apply for it. There isn’t a fixed fee for the visa, so it’s essential to inquire about the current fees at the embassy where you intend to obtain it. Consequently, the visa cost can vary depending on the location where you submit your application. For instance, one traveler paid €180 for their visa in Tbilisi, Georgia, while another paid a slightly higher amount to process their visa in Paris.

An IMPORTANT note is that to pay the cost of a visa at the airport, have enough cash in your pocket as in Iran, international payment cards are not valid. We have travelers who put their cash money in bags and do not have access to their money when check-in and have administrative problems, So keep enough cash in EUR/USD by yourself while getting your stomp visa at the airport.

It’s recommended to budget for the highest possible cost when planning your trip, as visa fees can change without notice. By budgeting accordingly and planning in advance, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free visa application process and enjoy your trip to Iran with ease.

Iran Visa Timings

Obtaining an Iranian tourist visa is not a time-consuming process, but travelers should plan accordingly to avoid any last-minute stress. It’s important to be aware that the Authorisation Code, necessary for obtaining a visa label, could take 3 – 7 working days to process except for US, Canada, and Britain passport holders, which take more time (around 30-45 working days). Even if you fast-track the process, it’s likely that the code will arrive with only a few days to spare before your planned arrival in Iran or tour start date.

This means that before any trip to Iran, especially when traveling on a tour, you’ll need to plan in advance and be prepared to rush to the embassy to process your authorization code. You may have to pay extra for fast-tracking and organizing your flight ticket to Iran at the last minute, which doesn’t always guarantee the best price. So, it’s a good idea not to book your flights to Iran or any travel arrangements until you know your Iran visa will be processed.

By planning ahead and being aware of the potential delays and challenges in obtaining an Iran tourist visa, travelers can have a stress-free and enjoyable trip to this beautiful country. 

How Can US citizens Travel to Iran?

For American citizens, exploring the wonders of Iran can be an enticing prospect, but it comes with a unique set of considerations due to the complex relationship between Iran and the United States of America.

When it comes to visas, Iran has stricter conditions for American citizens, and the United States has similar policies for Iranian nationals. While the process of obtaining a visa for American citizens traveling to Iran may require more time and effort, it is entirely possible with the right approach . Here’s a brief explanation of the process.

1. Visa Application Process:

If you plan to travel to Iran, it’s best to start the visa application process well before your intended departure date. It’s recommended to begin the process at least two months in advance to ensure there is enough time for processing.

2. Contacting the Iranian Interests Section or Embassy

American citizens seeking to obtain an Iran visa must contact the Iranian Interests Section located at the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington, D.C. This is due to the absence of any direct embassy or consulate representation of Iran in the United States. Alternatively, they may choose to contact an Iranian consulate in a third country.

3. Application Documentation

Applicants will need to submit specific documentation to support their visa application, including a completed visa application form, a valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond the planned departure date, passport-sized photographs, a detailed travel itinerary, and their resume which you can download its sample resume here .

4. Letter of Introduction

If you’re an American citizen planning to visit Iran, you’ll need something important: a special letter. This letter can be easily obtained through a trusted travel agency in Iran. They’ll help you get this letter from the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This letter is like your travel pass. It should explain why you want to visit Iran, your travel plans, and if someone in Iran is helping you, they should be mentioned too.

5. Group Tour vs. Independent Travel

American citizens can choose between traveling as part of an organized group tour or in a private tour.

IMPORTANT note: Both should be escorted by an authorized tour guide. Joining an organized group tour can simplify the visa process, as the tour operator may assist with obtaining the letter of introduction and navigating the application procedure.

6. Additional Screening and Processing Time

Due to the sensitive nature of the bilateral relationship, visa applications from American citizens undergo additional screening, which may contribute to longer processing times compared to citizens of other countries. However, it is crucial to remain patient and diligent throughout the process.

7. Visa Validity and Duration

After approval, the visa will specify its validity period and the permitted duration of stay in Iran. It is crucial to strictly adhere to these limitations to prevent any complications while traveling.

Therefore traveling to Iran as a US citizen may require navigating a more intricate visa application process due to the existing differences between Iran and the United States. However, with careful preparation, proper documentation, and patience, obtaining an Iranian visa is entirely possible. By adhering to the specified requirements and following the recommended steps, American travelers can embark on an unforgettable journey to discover the rich history, culture, and beauty of Iran, making memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Iran Visa for US UK and Canada Citizens: A Comprehensive Guide

How Can British and Canadian Citizens Travel to Iran?

British and Canadian citizens can travel to Iran following a similar process as American citizens . They must apply at the Iranian embassy in England or Canada, considering the required documentation and a letter of introduction from an authorized travel agency in Iran. Notably, these nationalities cannot obtain airport visas and must only use escorted tour services through a tour operator.

If the office of the custodian of Iran’s interests in Washington or other embassies located in Canada and England is far from your place of residence, or if you cannot visit them for any reason, you can receive your visa through the postal service. You should send the necessary documents, including your passport and your photo, along with a special form filled out by mail to the office of Iran’s Interests Protector or the embassy of your choice. After completing the administrative formalities, they will send the passport along with the visa to you.

Visa Refusal Possibilities

Travelers need to be aware that there is a risk of visa refusal for Iran if there is proof that they have traveled to Israel. This is due to the political tensions between the two countries and the Iranian government’s strict stance on the matter.

Additionally, visitors who work in certain industries, such as journalism or media, may also face scrutiny from Iranian authorities. This is because the Iranian government is sensitive to the portrayal of the country in the media and may view journalists and media workers as a potential threat to their national security.

If you have traveled to Israel in the past, it’s important to be transparent about this when applying for an Iran tourist visa. While this may increase the likelihood of visa refusal, it’s important to be honest to avoid any potential legal issues or complications during your visit.

It’s also recommended to avoid discussing any sensitive topics related to politics or religion during your stay in Iran, as these may be viewed as provocative and lead to unwanted attention from authorities.

Nationality Restrictions- Israelis Travel to Iran

It’s really important to know that if you’re from Israel, you can’t go to Iran. The two countries don’t get along right now, so this rule probably won’t change for a while.

We understand that it might be disappointing if you’re from Israel and you want to visit Iran to learn about its amazing culture and history. But it’s super important to follow the rules and not try to sneak into Iran. If you do, you could get into big trouble with the law, and your safety could be in danger.

Even if you have another passport from a different country, don’t try to go to Iran if you’re also an Israeli citizen. It’s just not safe.

Travel Insurance for Visiting Iran: Insights from Our Iran Travel Guide

When you’re getting ready for a trip to Iran, remember this: You need travel insurance to get your visa. It’s like a permission slip for your trip.

But not just any insurance will do. Make sure your insurance covers all of Iran and all the stuff you want to do there. Some insurance might say no to certain places or activities, so read the fine print!

You can also ask your tour guide to set you up with health insurance from a company like Saman Insurance. This insurance will help if you get sick or have an accident, and it can cover up to 50,000 Euros in medical bills.

So, if you want to stay safe and have a blast in Iran, get good travel insurance and be careful. Happy travels!

Booking the Best Tour

Booking an Iran tour package is a fantastic way to dive into the country’s incredible culture and history. It’s especially great if you want a smooth and stress-free trip. This might be your only option if you’re from the UK, the US, or Canada. You see, these countries have special rules that say you must join an official Iran tour operator or hire a private Iran guide.

Now, there are so many Iran tour packages out there that it can feel a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry! If you pick a trusted tour company like To Iran Tour , you’re in for a memorable adventure. We’ll take you to amazing places in Iran, ones that you might not easily reach on your own or using public transport. Plus, your local guide will be a treasure trove of info about Iran’s ancient history – perfect if you’re a history and culture fan.

You might think being in a tour group means you’re stuck all the time, but that’s not the case. You’ll still have plenty of free time to explore each place at your own pace. Even in a small group, we had loads of opportunities to discover Iran’s hidden gems on our terms.

Now, one thing to remember is that Iran tour packages can be quite packed. There’s not much downtime or rest days on the schedule, which might feel a bit rushed if you prefer a slower travel pace. But in just 12-14 days, you’ll see and experience so much that you’ll never forget.

All in all, booking an Iran tour package is an awesome way to soak up this incredible country and its rich culture and history. With a bit of planning and research, you’ll find the perfect tour that matches your interests and travel style. You’ll make memories that will stick with you forever.

Private Guided Tours of Iran

For those who prefer a more personalized travel experience, hiring a private tour guide in Iran is a great option. While it typically requires a minimum of two people, it offers the flexibility to customize your itinerary and travel at your own pace.

Private guided tours of Iran are particularly appealing to those who may have visa restrictions or prefer to avoid traveling in larger groups. With a private guide, you’ll have the benefit of local knowledge and expertise, and you can tailor your itinerary to suit your interests and preferences.

One of the advantages of a private guided tour is that you can have an intimate and authentic experience of Iran’s culture and history. Your guide can take you to off-the-beaten-path destinations and provide insights into local customs and traditions, giving you a deeper understanding and appreciation of the country.

Additionally, a private guided tour allows you to avoid the hassle and stress of planning logistics and transportation on your own. Your guide can handle all the details, from arranging accommodations and transportation to helping you navigate local customs and etiquette.

Iran Independent Travel

While solo and independent travel to Iran can be moderately easy for those with a free nationality, it’s important to note that the country is not yet well-trodden on the independent travel path. Hostels and guesthouses are scarce, and big, expensive hotels dominate the landscape, especially in Tehran. It’s also rare to come across a group of solo travelers to join.

However, that doesn’t mean that solo travel in Iran is impossible or unsafe. On the contrary, it’s a rewarding and exhilarating experience that offers a unique glimpse into the country’s rich culture and history. While it may require a bit more planning and effort, traveling independently in Iran allows you to create your own itinerary and explore at your own pace.

One of the advantages of independent travel is the flexibility to stay in smaller, locally-run accommodations and eat at local restaurants, giving you a more authentic and immersive experience. It also allows you to connect with locals and learn about their way of life, which can be a highlight of any trip.

Of course, traveling independently in Iran also requires some caution and common sense, such as being aware of local customs and dress codes and taking necessary precautions for safety. It’s also important to do your research and plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Couchsurfing in Iran

Couchsurfing can be a popular option for budget-conscious travelers looking to connect with locals and experience the culture firsthand. However, it’s important to note that Couchsurfing in Iran is officially illegal. While many independent travelers have reported using the resource and finding local hosts to be excellent guides, there are some risks involved.

One of the main concerns with Couchsurfing in Iran is the lack of official filters in place for hosts listed online. This means that travelers must exercise caution and take responsibility for their own safety. In the event that anything goes wrong, Couchsurfing hosts cannot be held responsible.

Despite these risks, Couchsurfing in Iran can be a rewarding experience for those who are willing to take the necessary precautions. It provides an opportunity to connect with locals and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s rich culture and history.

It’s important to note that while Couchsurfing may be illegal in Iran, it does happen anyway. However, travelers should be aware of the potential risks involved and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. This may include carefully vetting potential hosts, staying in public areas, and communicating clearly with your host about your expectations and boundaries.

Solo Female Travel to Iran

Traveling alone as a woman in Iran can be a bit tough sometimes, but it can also be incredibly rewarding if you’re open to experiencing the unique culture and people here. While women might have some more rules to follow compared to men, many solo female travelers have found Iranians to be really friendly and kind.

Here are some things to keep in mind to make your trip smoother:

• Respect Local Customs: Especially in smaller and more traditional places like Yazd, Kashan, and Qom, it’s essential to dress modestly. That means avoiding clothes that are too revealing, as it might come across as disrespectful.
• No PDA: Public displays of affection, like hugging or kissing in public, aren’t allowed in Iran. However, friends of the same sex usually hug or kiss each other on the cheek and it’s considered normal.

Despite these things to watch out for, Iran is actually considered one of the safest countries for tourists . You can confidently explore its beautiful landscapes and rich culture, knowing that most locals will be warm and welcoming.

Just remember to be cautious like you would anywhere else. Stay away from poorly lit areas at night and keep an eye on your surroundings in crowded places. With some careful planning and an open attitude, traveling solo as a woman in Iran can be a really enriching experience that might change your life.

In the end, while it might require a bit more effort and attention to local customs, it’s a unique and rewarding way to discover this amazing country and make unforgettable memories.

Best Time to Travel to Iran

Iran is a year-round destination with diverse climates and landscapes, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a variety of experiences. However, the best time to visit Iran depends on the region you plan to visit and your personal preferences.

For the classic route , which includes popular destinations like Tehran , Kashan, Isfahan, Yazd , and Shiraz, the best time to visit is during the two high seasons. The first high season runs from early March to late May , while the second high season runs from early September to late November . During these periods, the weather is generally mild, and the landscapes are lush and green, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

If you’re planning to explore the Northwest and West route along the Zagros mountains , which includes destinations like Ardabil, Tabriz, Zanjan, Hamedan, Kermanshah, and Sanandaj, the best time to visit is during the high season from mid-April until mid-November . During this period, the weather is generally pleasant, and the landscapes are at their most picturesque.

If you’re thinking about visiting ski resorts in the northern part of Tehran like Dizin, Shemshak, and Tuchal, or if you’re headed to places in Southern Iran such as Ahwaz, Bushehr, Bandar Abbas, and the Persian Gulf Islands , the perfect time to go is from late November to late March . This is when the weather is cooler, and the ski resorts are at their busiest and most fun!

Keep in mind that July to September in Iran can get really hot, which might make the usual travel route not so comfy. But don’t worry! If you plan well and keep an eye on the weather, you can still have a great time visiting Iran during this time.

So, the ideal time to go to Iran depends on what you like and where you want to go. Iran has all sorts of landscapes and weather, so no matter when you decide to visit, you’ll always find something cool to do in this awesome country. For more detailed information about the best time to visit Iran based on your destination and weather, check out this article below:

Best Time To Travel To Iran: Your Ultimate Guide 2023

Iran UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Iran is a treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that will leave you awestruck. With 26 sites recognized by UNESCO, including 24 cultural and two natural wonders , Iran boasts an ancient lineage that Iranians take pride in.

Each of these sites is the result of years of research and presentation of evidence to prove their significance to the world. From ancient palaces to stunning natural landscapes, these sites offer a glimpse into Iran’s rich cultural and historical heritage.

Visiting all of these sites would require multiple trips to Iran, but the effort is well worth it. Some of the most popular UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Iran include the ancient ruins of Persepolis , the stunning Sheikh Safi al-din Khanegah and Shrine Ensemble in Ardabil, and the beautiful Masjed-e Jāmé in Isfahan .

Other notable sites include the historic city of Yazd , the ancient hydraulic system of Shushtar , and the Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex, which is one of the largest covered bazaars in the world.

If you’re into history, nature, and culture or want a fantastic travel adventure, Iran’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites have something for you. So, get your bags packed, plan your trip, and let’s explore the awesome things this amazing country has to offer. You can even join the UNESCO tour with To Iran Tour to see it all!

Dress Code in Iran

If you’re planning to visit Iran, it’s good to know that they have a dress code that you need to follow. As a woman, you should wear loose clothing that covers your body and a headscarf. But don’t worry, you don’t need to wear a burka or anything too concealing. You can still show off your personal style and wear clothes that make you feel confident and comfortable. Just keep in mind the local customs and you’ll be all set!

Even though there is a strict dress code in Iran, you’ll quickly see that it’s not as stereotypical as you might think. Iranian women are very fashionable and take pride in their appearance. Fashion is a way for them to express themselves and make a statement, and you’ll notice them wearing beautifully designed headscarves and stylish clothing that still comply with the Iranian dress code .

It’s also worth noting that the dress code applies to both men and women. Men are required to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants that cover their legs. 

While it’s true that there is a “morality police” in Iran, whose job is to enforce the dress code and other moral codes of conduct in public, it’s important to note that they are not actively targeting foreign visitors. So, as a traveler to Iran, you don’t need to worry too much about being chased down by the morality police.

In general, if you show respect for local customs and adhere to the dress code regulations, you can have a secure and enjoyable travel experience in Iran. Therefore, don’t allow concerns about the morality police or any misunderstandings preventing you from exploring all the amazing things that this country has to offer.

Packing Tip for Travel to Iran

Packing for a trip to Iran can be a bit daunting, especially with the strict dress code regulations. However, with a little bit of preparation and the right mindset, you can embrace the local customs and still express your personal style.

The most immediate essential item to pack for Iran is a headscarf, also known as a ‘Roosari’ in Farsi. But don’t worry if it falls off – just put it back on again. While wearing a headscarf is mandatory, it’s common for Iranian women to wear it a little loose and halfway back on their head, with a high bun or ponytail to keep it in place. And if you’re worried about showing a little bit of hair, don’t be – it’s granted.

When it comes to tops, loose-fitting ones with three-quarter-length sleeves are ideal, especially in the heat. The general rule of thumb is that your body should be covered, and your arms should not be bare. As for trousers, they should be baggy, but tight, brightly colored leggings worn with a long, loose-fitting top are also acceptable, as long as your legs are covered down to the ankles.

The myth that you need to dress in dark colors or black tunics is just that – a myth. Embrace fashion the way the locals do, and bring some color into your Iran packing list! Open-toed sandals are OK, especially on hot days, and sports shoes are fashionable in Iran, especially in bright colors, so pack some for longer day trips.

If you’re worried about not having enough appropriate attire, fear not. As soon as you arrive in Tehran or Shiraz, hit the bazaars and local markets for plenty of options. And if you’re traveling with children, it’s worth noting that young boys can wear shorts and t-shirts, and girls under ten are not required to wear a headscarf.

For men, dressing in Iran is more straightforward, much like in Western countries, except for no short shorts, super short sleeves, or extremely tight-fitting clothing.

Overall, remember to approach the dress code with an open mind and respect for local customs. And don’t be afraid to express your personal style while still adhering to the guidelines. With the right attitude and a well-stocked suitcase, you can have a comfortable and enjoyable trip to Iran.

Is Iran Safe to Travel?

Even though some Western media might paint a different picture, Iran is a safe and friendly place for travelers. You might worry about safety because of politics and cultural differences, but the truth is that Iran is a great place to visit.

The people in Iran are super welcoming. You’ll meet lots of friendly locals who are excited to have you in their country. Whether you’re exploring busy markets or historical sites, Iran offers a one-of-a-kind travel experience.

Like anywhere else, it’s essential to be cautious and aware of your surroundings when you travel. But honestly, the chances of running into safety problems in Iran are pretty low. Many travelers say they feel safer here than in other popular tourist spots.

So, if you’re thinking about visiting Iran, don’t let safety worries stop you. With the right mindset and some preparation, you can have a safe and unforgettable trip to this fascinating country.

Iranians are known for their hospitality. They often go out of their way to help visitors, whether it’s giving directions, suggesting a great local restaurant, or offering you a ride. They might even share their contact info, just in case you need assistance. This shows how much they want you to feel welcome and at ease during your stay.

It’s also worth mentioning that Iranians want to break away from the negative image sometimes shown in the media. They’re proud of their culture and want you to see the beauty of their country and the warmth of their people.

As a visitor to Iran, you have a special chance to bridge cultural gaps and show Iranians that the world outside isn’t as unfriendly as they might think. By approaching your trip with an open mind and a desire to learn, you can make meaningful connections and get a deeper understanding of Iranian culture.

In the end, the hospitality and friendliness of the Iranian people are some of the best parts of traveling to this amazing country. So, don’t hesitate to engage with the locals and fully enjoy the rich cultural traditions that make Iran such a unique and captivating destination.

Is Iran Safe to Travel RIGHT NOW?

When thinking about visiting Iran, like any other place you might want to go, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the news about politics and how your own country is getting along with Iran. But don’t worry too much because Iran is actually one of the safest countries in the Middle East for travelers.

Now and then, people in Iran might have protests about politics or money issues, but these usually stay in one place and don’t put tourists in danger. Just be smart and avoid those protest areas, like you would anywhere else.

Remember, Iran follows Islamic rules pretty strictly. So, things like drinking alcohol, doing drugs, or having romantic relationships with locals can get you in big trouble – like being kicked out of the country, getting arrested, or worse. But if you respect their way of doing things and follow the rules, you’ll have a great and safe time in Iran.

Overall, as long as you keep an eye on what’s happening and are careful, there’s no need to be super worried about going to Iran. If you go with the right attitude and prepare well, you’ll have a fantastic trip to this remarkable country.

Is Iran Safe to Visit 2024? A Comprehensive Overview

Essential Things to Remember When Visiting Iran

When you plan to visit Iran, it’s really important to be respectful and well-informed. Iran is a Muslim country where they take their rules seriously, especially Islamic law. So, it’s not a good idea to act like a clueless tourist and think you won’t get in trouble.

You see, what might be okay back home could get you into real trouble here. Iran has strict laws and customs, and it’s super important to follow them.

But here’s the good news. If you respect the local ways and follow the rules, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Iran. So, don’t let the strict rules scare you away. Come with an open mind and a desire to learn about the unique and fascinating culture of Iran. You’ll have a great time!

Is Iran an Arab Country?

There is a common misconception that Iran is an Arab country, fueled by its location in the Middle East, Muslim religion, and some similarities in culture and language. However, it’s important to note that Iran is not an Arab country, and Iranians are not Arabs.

Iranians speak Persian, also known as Farsi, which is not the same as Arabic. While there are many languages spoken within Iran, including Kurdish, Turkish, and Khuzi Arabic, the primary language is Persian. This is due to the many different ethnic groups that exist within the country, each with its own unique language and cultural traditions.

It’s crucial to acknowledge that misinterpreting Iranians as Arabs can lead to misunderstandings and hurt feelings. Although Iran has certain similarities with Middle Eastern Arab nations, it possesses a unique culture and history that distinguishes it.

In essence, when traveling to Iran, it’s vital to maintain an open-minded attitude and a genuine desire to explore the country’s distinctive cultural traditions and history. By recognizing the differences between Iran and its neighboring Arab nations, you can develop a greater appreciation for the richness and diversity of the entire region.

The Iranian currency system can be a bit confusing for those unfamiliar with it. Iran uses two units of currency, the Rial (IRR) and the Toman.

The Rial is the official currency of Iran. It has been the official currency since 1932, and the symbol for the Rial is “﷼”.

The Toman is not an official currency but is widely used in everyday transactions in Iran. The Toman is equal to 10 Rials. This practice of using the Toman as a unit of currency dates back to the early 20th century when the value of the Rial significantly decreased due to inflation. 

To convert Rials to Tomans, you remove one zero from the Rial amount. For example, 1,000 Rials is equivalent to 100 Tomans. In practice, prices are often quoted in Tomans rather than Rials. For instance, if an item costs 10,000 Rials, it would be referred to as 1,000 Tomans. This pricing convention is used in everyday life, in markets, shops, and sometimes even on price tags.

The official currency notes in Iran are denominated in Rials, not Tomans. When you’re working with important papers, like contracts or international deals, you’ll often use the Rial as the currency.

The currency notes come in various denominations, including 1,000,000 Rials, 500,000 Rials, 100,000 Rials, 50,000 Rials , and so on.

Although the official currency is the Rial, the Toman is more commonly used and understood by Iranians in their daily lives. For example, if someone says a product costs 500,000, they most likely mean 500,000 Tomans, which is equal to 5,000,000 Rials.

Iran Travel Costs 2024: The Best Detailed Guide for Tourists

Currency Exchange in Iran

To get the best exchange rates , it’s recommended to take US Dollars or Euros with you and exchange them at reputable exchange offices. Let’s figure out more about exchanging money in Iran:

There are a few ways to exchange your money into Rials, and some are safer than others:

• One option is to go to the currency exchange at the airport. It’s a secure choice, but the exchange rate there might not be as good as what you’d find in the market.
• Another way is to exchange your money at the hotel or exchange offices in some hotels. Their rates are similar to what you’d get at the airport.
• If you’re in Tehran, you can also sell your foreign currency on Ferdowsi Street or at exchange offices in the city. These places have a wider range of rates, and they’re usually better than the airport rates.

The only catch is that you might not be headed to Ferdowsi Street on your trip. If you plan to visit the Tehran market, you can ask your guide (if you have one) to take you to Ferdowsi Street for currency exchange.

Just remember, it’s not a good idea to deal with people on the street who are buying and selling currency. Stick to the official exchange places for your safety.

Credit and Debit Cards during Iran Travel

If you’re planning a trip to Iran, it’s essential to understand the financial landscape and the options available for making transactions. Unfortunately, using credit or debit cards from outside of Iran is not possible due to the lack of an international card network.

This means that the best option is to bring enough cash with you to convert to an Iranian Rial. However, there is now a new option available for tourists and temporary visitors like the Mah Card and Irani Card .

The Mah Card is a prepaid debit card that can be used in Iran. Like most travel cards, you can instantly add funds to your card in your preferred or home currency, and it will be converted to Iranian Rial. The advantage of using the Mah Card is that it’s more convenient than carrying cash, protects you from unauthorized purchases, and is accepted country-wide.

So, if you’re looking for a safe and easy way to make transactions during your trip to Iran, consider getting a Mah Card. With this handy tool in your pocket, you can enjoy your travels without worrying about carrying large amounts of cash or the inconvenience of finding exchange offices.

Of course, there are other solutions, such as gift cards that are issued through banks, and to use this unofficial solution, you should ask your tour operator for help.

Public Transport in Iran

Exploring Iran’s cities is an adventure in itself, and luckily, there are plenty of public transport options available to help you get around!

Best Inner-City Transport Options

Metro (subway).

The Iranian Metro is a modern and efficient way to explore the city, especially in Tehran, Shiraz, Tabriz, Mashhad, and Isfahan. It’s the ideal option to get around Tehran, and the stations are easily accessible by taxi or bus.

The ticket price for one trip is about 3000 Tomans, which is equal to approximately 0.1$ in 2023, I know, it’s so cheap. Additionally, you can purchase a card to pay for the metro trips and even the buses in Tehran. Rush hours are typically from 7-9 a.m. and 5-7 p.m.

The metro guidance can be easily found in each station, but if you want to be prepared for your metro journey, check out the Tehran Metro website or other cities’ maps.

Buses are another popular option for inner-city transport in Iran. They are widely available and offer an affordable way to get around the city. Bus fares vary depending on the distance you are traveling, but they are generally inexpensive.

There are two main types of buses in big cities: Regular and BRT. You can pay for the buses using your Metro card, and fares typically range from 3000 to 10,000 Tomans (10 to 25 cents) per trip. You can easily locate all the bus and BRT stations on Google Maps.

In comparison to subways, buses are somehow time-consuming because of traffic jams. So, if your destination is near a subway station, our suggestion is to take the subway instead of the bus.

Another way to get around in the city is by taxi. There are different types of taxis available, including shuttle/shared taxis (Khatti in Farsi), private taxis (Darbast in Farsi), and non-registered taxis (Shakhsi in Farsi). Shuttle/shared taxis are a cheaper option, but they are for fixed destinations, and you may have to wait for the taxi to fill up. Private taxis are readily available, but you should negotiate the fare before getting in. Non-registered taxis are driven by people who are not licensed taxi drivers, and you need to negotiate the price with them too. It is advisable to get a shared Taxi or Private Taxi and not a non-registered one for your safety.

Of course, platforms such as Snapp and Tapsi have been launched, which have a function similar to Uber. You can download their applications from Google Play or directly from their websites and register with your Iranian SIM card.

Finally, if you need a taxi in a hurry, you can call the numbers 133, 1828, and 1833 in major cities in Iran to request a taxi wherever you are. This service is called “Bisim Taxi” and is available 24/7.

10 Essential Apps for Traveling to Iran: Empowering Your Exploration!

Intra-City Transport Options

Buses are a common and affordable way to travel between cities in Iran. There are two types of buses available: regular and VIP buses. VIP buses offer more legroom and comfortable seating, with space to almost lie down.

You can purchase bus tickets from the hotel front desk, local travel agencies, platforms such as SnappTrip, or directly from the bus terminal. Prices vary depending on the type of bus and the distance you are traveling. For instance, a VIP ticket from Tehran to Shiraz costs around 200,000 Tomans ($15).

There are three bus terminals in Tehran: Jonoub Terminal (South), Sharq Terminal (East), and Qarb or Bayhaghi Terminal (West). From these terminals, you can easily buy and board a bus and start your trip to other cities in Iran.

The train network in Iran is relatively extensive and offers a comfortable and scenic way to travel between cities. The trains are well-maintained and offer a range of seating options, from economy to first-class; But their speed and being on time cannot be compared with the European rail transport system.

Trains are the best and safest option for intercity travel in Iran. There are different types of trains available, including 4-bed, 6-bed, and bus trains. You can also choose between express and regular trains.

Book train tickets through online apps, local travel agencies, hotels, or directly at the train station. Prices vary depending on the distance and the type of train. For example, a ticket from Tehran to Yazd costs between 150,000 and 300,000 Tomans ($5 to $10).

Private Car

If you prefer a more flexible and personalized way to travel, you can also consider renting a private car with a driver. This option is more expensive than buses or trains, but it offers the freedom to explore at your own pace. 

The Maxim platform has also provided the possibility of renting a car with a driver at a very reasonable price all over Iran. You can download its application from Google Play and register with your Iranian SIM card.

Domestic Flight

Finally, if you’re short on time or traveling long distances, you can opt for a domestic flight. The major cities in Iran are well-connected by domestic airlines, making it easy to get around the country quickly and efficiently.

Online platforms for selling Air tickets, such as Alibaba, provide the online purchase of domestic and international flight tickets.

By understanding the different transport options available in Iran, you can choose the one that suits your needs and budget and explore the country with ease.

Separated Men’s and Women’s Carriages in Iran’s Public Transport

It’s important to note that there are some separate men’s and women’s carriages on public transport in Iran, both on the metro and buses for those women who prefer to use them. While subway cars are generally mixed-gender, women who want more privacy can choose to ride in the first and last wagon on both sides. On buses, there may be designated seating areas for men and women, with women sitting in the back and men in the front, or vice versa. However, couples can sit together in the men’s section but not in the women’s section. Respecting these gender-segregated arrangements while using public transport in Iran is essential.

Pre-register with the Foreign Office of Your Country

Before embarking on your journey to Iran, it’s important to research the specific travel regulations, rules, and warnings for your home country. Each country has its own guidelines, and it’s critical to be aware of them before setting off on your adventure. 

To ensure your safety and peace of mind, it’s also a good idea to pre-register or alert your foreign office about your travel plans. This step is particularly important for British citizens , as there is no embassy representation in Iran. By registering with your foreign office, you can stay informed about any updates or changes in travel regulations or warnings.

It is important to note that certain travel insurance providers may ask you to inform the appropriate authorities about your travel plans before you can obtain coverage. To ensure that you are fully protected, it is essential to identify which authorities you need to inform before you leave.

By taking these steps before your trip, you can travel to Iran with confidence, knowing that you have done your due diligence to ensure your safety and security.

Internet Access during Iran Travel

When traveling to Iran, it’s important to anticipate limited internet access and mandatory “digital filtering.” The Internet connection in Iran is known for being frustratingly slow, and many popular social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and WhatsApp are blocked. Additionally, you need to pay fees for a good connection.

Make sure that you inform your family members or friends that you may be out of touch and to prepare for unreliable internet.

Recommended SIM Cards to Use in Iran

When it comes to buying a SIM card in Iran, Irancell is the top phone operator and offers temporary SIM cards specifically designed for tourists. These SIM cards come pre-loaded with a credit balance and 4G internet access, allowing you to stay connected with ease. They are sold at Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport and are valid for 30 days.

Irancell’s temporary tourist SIM cards provide affordable and convenient connectivity throughout Iran.

You can buy regular Irancell SIM cards from their service centers located in almost every city. However, it’s important to note that you need to purchase charge and internet packages before using them. To do so, you can get assistance from Irancell staff at the centers, use the MTN Irancell application, or dial USSD codes.

Which VPN to use in Iran?

Staying connected while traveling in Iran can present unique challenges, particularly when it comes to accessing the internet and using your preferred VPN. To ensure that you can stay connected and protect your online privacy, it’s essential to find the right VPN for your needs.

There are several VPN options available for both Android and IOS users. For Android users, Hi VPN, Psiphon, v2ray, and Hotspot Shield are recommended, each offering reliable and secure connections. For IOS users, popular VPN options include Psiphon, Free VPN, and VPNProxyMaster, all of which are well-suited to use in Iran.

To have a suitable and safe VPN, you can ask your tour operator or tour guide for help. If you have any questions or help do not hesitate to ask To Iran Tour support team.

Persian Food

Iran is well-known for its varied and flavorful cuisine. If you’re a foodie who loves trying new things, you should definitely give Persian cuisine a try! Some must-try dishes include stews, Dizi (a lamb-based dish with broth and solids separated), Ash, and Haleem. To ensure you have the best experience, it’s important to do some research and find the top restaurants that serve these dishes so you can truly savor the flavors of Iran.

Persian Breakfast Guide: Irresistible Traditions!

Iranian food for vegetarians

In Iranian cuisine, meat is a staple ingredient, but there are also numerous vegetarian dishes that are just as delectable. Mirza-Ghasemi or Kashk-e Badenjan, both made with eggplant, are excellent choices. If you’re on a tight budget, go for Falafel, which is both inexpensive and delicious. However, it’s crucial to convey your dietary requirements to the restaurant staff and be ready to request that meat be omitted from your meal if needed.

By being open to trying new dishes, you can experience the rich and diverse cuisine of Iran with a little extra effort and creativity.

Drinking in Iran

When it comes to drinking in Iran, it’s important to note that alcohol is strictly prohibited, and there are no bars or clubs serving alcoholic beverages. Instead, you’ll find a variety of non-alcoholic beer options available, typically in fruity flavors such as peach, lemon, strawberry, etc.

Alcohol in Iran: A Complete Guide for Tourists

It’s important to understand that there are no exceptions when it comes to alcohol consumption in Iran, whether you’re a local or a traveler. While it’s tempting to take up offers from locals to find the “real deal” at underground gatherings, it’s not worth the risk. The punishment for alcohol possession or consumption can be severe, and there are no allowances made for tourists or visitors.

Did you know that Buttermilk, or “Doogh” as it’s called in Iran, is a delicious fermented dairy drink? It has a slightly sour taste and is often paired with dried herbs like mint for a refreshing flavor. It is very common to enjoy Doogh besides any kind of kebab.

Iranian Etiquette

When visiting Iran, it’s important to be aware of and respectful of the cultural and religious customs that may differ from your own. By following these customs, you can demonstrate your appreciation for Iranian culture and enjoy your trip to the fullest. Here are some etiquette guidelines and fascinating insights into Iranian culture to keep in mind:

• One of the primary forms of social etiquette is “ Taarof” , where Iranians may insist on offering things to people, even if they don’t mean it. As a visitor, it is important to be aware of local customs and not immediately accept an offer.
• During the Muharram month , which is the mourning month of Imam Hossein, to show respect for religious beliefs, it’s best to avoid wearing bright colors, especially red.
• During Ramadan, eating or drinking in public is disrespectful while most people are fasting during the day.
• Shaking hands between men and women can be a delicate matter, and it is generally unacceptable for unrelated men and women to engage in this gesture. As a female tourist, it is advisable to wait and observe if men initiate the handshake first, instead of initiating it yourself.
• The thumbs-up hand signal is OKAY in Iran, but it is better not to use it in the presence of older people. However, younger people understand its meaning.
• In Iran, there are certain limitations when it comes to public displays of affection. While affectionate gestures like touching, kissing and handshakes between family members are acceptable, French kissing is considered inappropriate. Holding hands is generally tolerated, but hugging might be regarded as crossing the line. It’s important to note that inside holy places and religious cities, any public display of affection may not be tolerated at all.

For a truly enriching travel experience, it’s important to embrace and appreciate the customs and culture of Iran. By respecting their traditions, you’ll gain a deeper understanding and connection to the country and its people.

Time in Iran and the Solar Calendar

The country operates on Iran Standard Time (IRST), which is UTC+3:30.

The Solar Hijri Calendar

The solar calendar used in Iran is known as the Iranian calendar or the Persian calendar . It is a type of solar calendar that is based on the astronomical observations of the Sun’s movement. The calendar has its roots in ancient Persia and has undergone several modifications throughout history to align it with various astronomical and cultural considerations.

Here are some key differences between the Iranian calendar and the commonly used Gregorian calendar:

• Starting point: The Iranian calendar starts from the year of the Prophet Muhammad’s migration from Mecca to Medina, known as the Hijra. This event occurred in 622 CE in the Gregorian calendar. Therefore, the Iranian year is approximately 621 years behind the Gregorian year.
• Length of the year: The Iranian calendar is a solar calendar that consists of 12 months, each with varying lengths. The total length of a year in the Iranian calendar is approximately 365 or 366 days, depending on whether it is a leap year or not. Leap years occur every four years and consist of an additional day, just like in the Gregorian calendar.
• Naming of the months: The Iranian calendar has its own set of month names, which are deeply rooted in Persian culture and history. The names of the months are as follows: Farvardin, Ordibehesht, Khordad, Tir, Mordad, Shahrivar, Mehr, Aban, Azar, Dey, Bahman, and Esfand.
• Different New Year: The Iranian New Year , known as Nowruz, is celebrated on the vernal equinox, which usually falls on March 20th or 21st in the Gregorian calendar. Nowruz marks the beginning of spring and is one of the most significant holidays in Iran and several other countries in the region.
• Different era: The Iranian calendar uses the Islamic lunar Hijri era, which began with the Hijra mentioned earlier. In contrast, the Gregorian calendar uses the widely accepted Common Era (CE) system.

Time is a curious thing. It flows differently for each culture and place, shaped by history, geography, and tradition.

While visiting Iran, it’s best to keep an open mind when it comes to timeframes. It’s a good idea to bring along some extra patience and be ready to go with the flow. This is especially true when it comes to food, service, and payment. By embracing the relaxed pace of life in Iran, you can fully immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy a more laid-back travel experience.

Read more on Iran’s History and Iran Travel

Iran boasts a complex and fascinating history, which can be difficult to comprehend without prior knowledge. Even though tour guides can be informative, it’s recommended to do some research on the history of Persia and the events leading up to the Iranian Revolution in 1979 before embarking on a trip to Iran. This will enable you to gain a better understanding of the country’s composition and value its abundant cultural heritage.

Book Recommendation

Here are some excellent books to read before your trip:

• “Revolutionary Iran: A History of the Islamic Republic” by Michael Axworthy provides a comprehensive overview of recent Iranian history.
• “Iran: What Everyone Needs to Know” is also by Axworthy and delves into Iran’s economy, politics, culture, and people.
• “Daughter of Persia: A Woman’s Journey from Her Father’s Harem Through the Islamic Revolution” is a fascinating book. The story follows a woman born in Iran who went to study in the United States and later returned to the country amidst significant changes.

If you’re traveling in Iran, the Lonely Planet guidebook can be a valuable resource for exploring historical landmarks. While it’s not the only source of information, it’s a helpful tool to have with you since internet access in Iran may be limited.

To make the most of your trip to Iran, it’s a great idea to get to know its history and culture beforehand. Trust me, it will definitely enhance your travel experience!

FAQs about Visiting Iran

Q1: do i need a visa to visit iran.

A1: Yes, most travelers require a visa to enter Iran. You can obtain one through an Iranian embassy or consulate in your home country. There are some countries that can travel to Iran without a visa, and there are also some countries that can get their visa on arrival.

Q2: What is the best time to visit Iran?

A2: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal times to visit, as the weather is mild, and many attractions are at their best. But Iran has varied weather across different regions. For instance, the ideal season to tour Iranian deserts is winter.

Q3: Is it safe to travel to Iran?

A3: Iran is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it’s essential to stay informed about the current political situation and follow local guidelines.

Q4: What is the official currency in Iran?

A4: The official currency is the Iranian Rial (IRR), but you’ll commonly see prices quoted in Toman, which is equivalent to 10 Rials.

Q5: Can I use my credit card in Iran?

A5: No, international credit and debit cards are not widely accepted in Iran. Bring cash in US dollars or Euros and exchange it locally.

Q6: Is it safe for solo female travelers in Iran?

A6: Yes, Iran is considered safe for solo female travelers, but it’s important to dress modestly and be aware of local customs and norms.

Q7: Can I drink alcohol in Iran?

No, alcohol is strictly prohibited in Iran due to Islamic law. You won’t find it in public places.

Q8: What languages are spoken in Iran?

Persian (Farsi) is the official language, but many Iranians also speak English, especially in tourist areas.

Q9: Can I use social media in Iran?

Most social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter are blocked in Iran. However, you can access them using a VPN.

Q10: What is Iran famous for?

Iran is famous for its rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and stunning architecture. It’s renowned for attractions like the ancient city of Persepolis, the vibrant bazaars of Isfahan and Tabriz, and the beautiful mosques, such as the Pink Mosque in Shiraz. Iran is also known for its contributions to literature, poetry, and art, with famous poets like Rumi and Hafez hailing from this region. Additionally, Iran is celebrated for its world-class Persian rugs, saffron production, and traditional handicrafts.

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20 Best Places to Visit in Iran

by Admin · July 27, 2021

What Are Iran's Top Tourist Attractions

Today, tourists and travel experts have agreed that Iran is an exceptional destination, so much so that the country has gained ground in the tourism industry. Famous for its rich history, incredible food, highly regarded culture, beautiful villages, and equally picturesque sceneries, it’s safe to say Iran’s offerings are diverse and unmatched.

Hence, we have rounded up the 20 best places to visit in Iran with their prominent features to help you decide exactly where to go. Interestingly some of these tourist attractions are valuable UNESCO sites.

Plan your trip with our list of the best places to visit in Iran, and for more advice in this regard, do not hesitate to contact us .

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Palaces in Tehran

Tehran is famous for its magnificent palaces belong to Qajar and Pahlavi dynasties. These luxurious palaces of Tehran represent the culture, art, and civilization of contemporary Iran. The most spectacular palaces in Tehran that are among the best places to visit in Iran are listed below.

Golestan Palace

The most beautiful palace in Tehran is Golestan Palace, a collection of palace-museums belonging to the Safavid dynasty and the later periods. The complex that is a UNESCO site is located in a gorgeous garden.

Notably, Shams-ol-Emareh is the most beautiful palace of the Golestan Complex. It is a 35-meter high building with five floors which was the tallest building in Tehran at the time of its construction.

Address: Panzdah-e-Khordad St, District 12, Tehran, Tehran Province

Saadabad Palace

Saadabad is another complex of beautiful palaces in Iran located in the northern part of Tehran in the Darband district. Saadabad Palace complex includes 18 museums and palaces of Qajar and Pahlavi Imperial families in an area of about 110 hectares. The White Palace, The Green Museum Palace, and Ahmad Shah Palace are the most important buildings of this monument.

Address: Taheri St., District 1, Tehran, Tehran Province

Niavaran Palace

Niavaran Palace is a Qajari palace located in the Niavaran district. The complex includes Niavaran Private Palace, Sahebgharanieh Palace, Ahmad Shahi Palace, Jahan Nama Museum, The Museum of Private Cars, etc.

Address: Darband St., Tehran, Tehran Province

Every international tourist believes that Persepils is one of the best places to visit in Iran; It is known as a symbol of Persian civilization worldwide.

This magnificent monument, located near Marvdasht, Shiraz in Fars province, shows the architectural glory of the Persian kings of about 25 centuries ago. Persepolis, one of the UNESCO sites in Iran, belongs to all the world’s people.

Columns, inscriptions, bas reliefs, palaces, and gates left in the Persepolis area are among the world’s most famous civilization works.

Address: 60 km northwest of Shiraz

Opening Hours: Every Day 8:30 to 19:30 in spring and summer, 7:30 to 17:30 in fall and winter

Nasir Al-Molk Mosque (Pink Mosque)

Nasir Al-Molk Mosque is a masterpiece belonging to the Qajar period and is one of the best tourist attractions to visit in Iran based on the tourists’ reviews. 

Early in the morning, its colorful mosaic windows catch the light and make a picturesque combination of colors on the walls, floors, and ceiling. You must have seen the incredibly colorful photos of this mosque in the posters of Iran.

Besides, Nasir Al-Molk Mosque is famous for its beautiful decoration, including stained glass, colorful tiles, and delicate Muqarnas . Due to the extensive use of pink tiles in its decoration, which is unique in its kind, Nasir Al-Molk Mosque is also known as the Pink Mosque.

Address: Lotf Ali Khan Zand Street, Shiraz, Fars Province

Opening Hours: Every day 8:00 to 13:00 and 15:00 to 19:30 in spring and summer, 8:00 to 11:30 and 15:00 to 16:30 in fall and winter

Naqsh-E Jahan Square (Meidan Emam)

Naqsh-e Jahan Square, also known as the Grand Plaza of Isfahan, is a historical complex belonging to the Safavid era (1501-1736).

With about 90000 square meters of area, Naghsh-e Jahan Square is wider than Moscow Red Square and is the second-largest rectangular square after Tiananmen Square in Beijing .

Moreover, the Naqsh-e Jahan complex consists of the square surrounded by significant historical monuments, including Imam Mosque, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Ali Qapu Palace, and Isfahan Grand Bazaar. Notably, the whole complex is an Iran UNESCO site.

Address: Isfahan, Isfahan Province

Opening Hours: Every Day, 24 hours (Its surrounded monument have different opening hours)

The National Museum of Iran

The National Museum of Iran, located in the old context of Tehran, is the country’s most significant archeological and historical museum. Consequently, this museum is the reference or mother museum for all museums in Iran. It is noteworthy that there are about 300,000 objects from different periods (Paleolithic to contemporary) in this museum. There, you can also find the oldest signs of human presence on the plateau of Iran, with about 600,000 antiquity.

So, if you are interested in ancient history, this museum is one of the best places to visit in Iran for you.

Address: 30 th Tir St., Tehran, Tehran Province

Opening Hours: Every day 9.00 to 19.00 in spring and summer, 9:00 to 17:00 in fall and winter

National Jewelry Treasury (National Jewelry Museum)

If you are interested in glamorous jewelry and antiques, the Jewelry Museum is one of the best tourist attractions you can visit in Iran. This museum is located in the basement of the Central Bank of Iran in Tehran’s city center. In this museum, you will see the best and most valuable antique jewelry of Iran and even the world. It is worth mentioning that the most beautiful and precious jewel of the National Jewelry Treasury is Darya-ye Noor Diamond, the largest pink diamond in the world, weighing 182 carats.

Please note that photography is prohibited in the museum, and children under 12 years old can not visit this place. Also, this museum hosts visitors for only 2 hours every day from Saturday to Tuesday.

Address: Central Bank of Iran, Ferdowsi Ave., Tehran, Tehran Province

Opening Hours: Saturday till Tuesday 14:00 to 16:30

Historic City of Yazd

One of the places you must visit in Iran is Yazd, the third most attractive city after Shiraz and Isfahan. Yazd is the first adobe city worldwide and the second historical city after Venice, Italy.

Some of the features of Yazd Historic City include the adobe houses that are located near each other, narrow and covered alleys, and tall windcatchers.

Moreover, Yazd Old Town is an Iran UNESCO site, which houses many valuable monuments such as the Amir Chakhmagh Complex, the Jame Mosque of Yazd, ancient water reservoir, Alexander Prison, etc.

Address: Yazd, Yazd Province

Opening Hours: Every Day, 24 hours

Dasht-e Lut (Lut Desert)

Without douth deserts are among the best places to visit in Iran. Accordingly, the Dasht-e Lut or Lut Desert, located in Kerman Province, is the first Iran UNESCO natural site, covering about 10% of Iran’s territory. Lut Plain is a collection of extraordinary natural appearances and geographic features. Accordingly, the most magnificent ones are Kaluts, the high hills carved from the bedrock by sandy winds.

Moreover, Nebka park (the natural flower pots), Star-Shaped Dunes, Gandom Beryan (the hottest spot on the planet), Rood-e Shoor (the Salty River), etc., are other attractions of this UNESCO desert. Moreover, you can enjoy trekking, safari, camel riding, camping, and star observing in the Lut Desert.

Address: Kerman, South Khorasan, and Sistan and Baluchestan provinces, Iran

Tomb of Hafez (Hafezieh)

Hafez is one of the most well-known Persian poets of the 15th century, whose poems are about love and spirituality. Interestingly, Goethe and Nietzsche have been inspired by his poems.

Now, Hafeziyeh is the burial place of Hafez in the gorgeous Golgasht-e Mosalla Garden in Shiraz. And Hafez’s tomb is a marvelous octagonal pavilion that is known as a symbol of Shiraz.

Moreover, the pleasant atmosphere of this attraction can bring you peace and create happy hours for you. In addition to Hafez, other famous poets and mystics have been buried in this garden.

Address: Chehel Magham St., Shiraz, Fars Province

Opening Hours: Every day, 8:30 to 23:30 in spring and summer, 7:30 to 22:00 in fall and winter

Kashan Historic Houses

Kashan is the city of traditional architectural wonders which has maintained its classic appearance. So, the top attractions to visit in Kashan are its historic houses. Here are the most remarkable Kashan Historic Houses.

Tabatabai House

It is a historic house museum, famous as “The Bride of Iran,” which represents the lifestyle of Kashan royal families during the 19th century. Its luxurious decorations, including delicate plastering and colored glassworks, make the Tabatabai house one of the best places to visit in Iran.

Address: Alavi Street, Kashan, Isfahan Province

Borujerdi House

Borujerdi House is a historic Qajarid building located in the heart of the Kashan historical context. In terms of architecture, the building has both interior and exterior segments with fantastic decorations; Its exterior design resembles the buildings designed by Gaudi in Barcelona.

Abbasi House (Abbasian Historical House)

This house is an outstanding example of Persian-Islamic architecture built on over 5000 square meters consisting of 5 floors and 5 yards. Mosaic windows, stucco reliefs, and carvings are the features of its stunning decorations.

Hyrcanian Caspian Mixed Forest

In the south of the Caspian Sea, from the seashore to the mountains, the valuable Hyrcanian mixed forests are located with an antiquity of more than 40 million years. These forests are 55,000 square kilometers, of which two million hectares are located in Iran.

These forests are like a green ribbon at the Caspian Sea border, stretching from Mazandaran to Gilan, Gorgan, and Arasbaran.

Besides its wonderful sceneries, the Hyrcanian forest provides clean air and water storage and is home to various fauna and flora.

Address: The southern border of the Caspian Sea (in Mazandaran, Gilan, and Golestan Provinces)

Opening Hours: Every day, 24 hours

Jameh Mosque of Isfahan (Atigh Mosque)

Historical mosques are among the best places to visit in Iran. Jame Mosque of Isfahan is the oldest monument of Isfahan and the UNESCO registered site located near the Isfahan Grand Bazaar.

This historical site was constructed and renovated during twelve centuries ( from the 8th century to the end of the 20th century). Hence, each part of the mosque shows the evolution of Persian architecture in different periods.

Furthermore, you can see the most beautiful plastered altar of the Patriarchal period, valuable inscriptions, delicate Muqarnas decorations, and tilework in this mosque.

Address: Majlesi St, Isfahan, Isfahan Province

Opening Hours: Every day 9:00 to 18:00 in spring and summer, 9:00 to 16:30 in fall and winter Break for praying from 12:00 to 14:00

Jolfa Neighborhood (Armenian Quarter of Isfahan)

Jolfa Neighborhood, located near the Zayandeh Rood river in Isfahan, is one of the most exciting tourist attractions in Iran.

In this old quarter, you can see cobbled streets reminiscent of the historic neighborhoods of European cities. Moreover, tall clocks, churches, Western-style cafes, ponds, statues, and everything present the significant difference between this area and other old contexts in Iran.

Besides, there are 11 historic churches in the Jolfa Quarter of Isfahan, the most important of which is the Vank Church. You can also visit Isfahan Music Museum in this neighborhood.

Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex

Old bazaars are among the best places to visit in Iran, where you can buy colorful souvenirs. In this regard, Tabriz Bazaar is one of the world’s oldest markets on the ancient Silk Road and the largest covered old bazaar globally. Moreover, this marketplace is a vibrant bazaar and a UNESCO-registered site.

Besides, walking in its long corridors under the tall arches and Muqarnas domes is like reviewing a thousand years of life.

Finally, if you travel to Tabriz, we suggest visiting this grand market and buying handmade Persian carpets, leather products, local sweets, nuts, spices, etc.

Address: Old Bazaar, Tabriz, East Azerbaijan Province, Iran

Opening Hours: Every Day 10:00 to 17:00, Most of the Shops are Closed on Friday

Shazdeh Garden

Persian Gardens are among the best tourist attractions to visit in Iran. Accordingly, nine Persian Gardens are on the Iran UNESCO sites list, that the biggest one is Mahan Shazdeh Garden near Kerman. This gorgeous garden is like an emerald in the heart of the Lut desert. Notably, the irrigation system and the architecture of this garden reflect Iranian architects’ intelligence.

There is a long stairway with the water flow on it and trees on both sides in the middle of the garden. This stairway goes directly to the marvelous palace at the end of the garden.

Address: Mahan, 38 km south of Kerman, Kerman Province

Opening Hours: Every day 9:00 to 21:00

Abyaneh Red Village

On the Iran classic route, between Kashan and Tehran, lies Abyaneh, the Red Village of Iran. Abyaneh village, with more than 1500 years old, is one of the highest residential areas in Iran with a stepped structure. In this ancient village, the houses are made of red clay and brick, and the doors are decorated with wooden windows.

The residents of Abyaneh have preserved their customs, traditions, language, and traditional clothing; Women wear beautiful white floral scarves and colorful skirts.

Moreover, in Abyaneh, you can enjoy sightseeing, photography, tasting delicious food, buying local handicrafts, cycling, etc.

Address: 90 km south of Kashan, Isfahan Province

Hormoz Island (Rainbow Island)

Hormoz Island, in the south of Iran, with red, silver, gold, white, and orange soil, is known as the rainbow island that doesn’t have any counterpart in the world. The contrast of the colorful soil with the azure blue of the Persian Gulf has made this island one of the best places to visit in Iran.

You can enjoy its unique and pristine scenery, such as red beaches, glowing beaches, rainbow caves, salt mountains, and hidden beaches on Hormuz Island.

Besides enjoying its scenic sceneries, you can do various water sports such as diving on this island. On the other hand, you can get acquainted with southern Iran’s cultures, customs, and local food.

Address: 30 km southwest of Bandar Abbas, Hormozgan Province

Kandovan Rocky Village

60 kilometers from Tabriz city in northwestern Iran lies Kandovan Village, the Cappadocia of Iran. With about 800-year antiquity, this rocky settlement stands at 2200 meters above sea level and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Iran.

This rocky village is famous for its beehive-formed houses that have been dug in the heart of the cliffs.  In Kandovan, you can get involved with rural life, enjoy sightseeing, stay in an extraordinary rocky room, and buy colorful and delicious souvenirs.

Address: 55 km south of Tabriz, East Azerbaijan Province

Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System

One of the best places to visit in Iran that most tourists miss because it is out of the Iran classic route is Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System.

This hydraulic system includes water mills, dams, water distribution systems, castles, waterfalls, and bridges on the Karun River, located in southwestern Iran. This historical complex is one of the most impressive ancient engineering structures globally, which dates back to the Sassanid era and has been registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Address: Taleghani Street, Shooshtar, Khuzestan Province

Opening Hours: Every day, 8:00 to 20:00 in spring and summer, 8:00 to 17:30 in fall and winter

Holy Shrine of Imam Reza

The shrine of Imam Reza (the eighth Shiite Imam) in Mashhad is a magnificent sacred place for Muslims. In this regard, this complex receives millions of pilgrims annually.

However, the importance of this shrine is not limited to its religious aspect; it is one of the largest mosques in the world with impressive architectural features. Different entrances, courtyards, mosques, porches, museums, libraries, etc., are different parts of this stunning complex. Notably, its museums include the Astan Quds Razavi Central Museum, the Quran Museum, the Carpet Museum, the Anthropology Museum, the Coin Museum, etc. It is noteworthy that this magnificent collection is on the list of the national heritages of Iran.

Address: Mashhad, Razavi Khorasan Province

Best Places to Visit in Iran at a Glance

In the table below, you can find useful information about the 20 best places to visit in Iran that we have introduced in the sections above.

If you have any other information about the top tourist attractions to visit in Iran or have any questions, please leave your comments.

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5 Beautiful Places To Visit In Iran

• by Jonny Duncan
• May 21, 2020 September 27, 2022

Iran quickly became one of my top favourite destinations for so many reasons!

The natural scenery is beyond astounding. The food, even for me as a vegan, is absolutely mouthwatering with so many spices and new tastes melting together.

The architecture; detailed and colourful.

And the people… The people are so friendly and truly makes the travel experience worthwhile.

There are so many astounding places to see in Iran and unless you have months to spend in the country, there is no way you will be able to fit them all in your itinerary.

That’s why I’ve put together 5 highlights that you will be able to explore even with as little as 10 days in Iran . Get ready for a blend of both off the beaten path and popular places to see in Iran!

Places to See in Iran

View of Abyaneh, the 2500 years old village

Esfahan is said to be half the world. And it is in so many ways. If you ask me, this is the most beautiful city in Iran.

The centre for tourism is without a doubt Naqsh-e Jahan Square a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This is one of the biggest squares in the world and is popular among the locals for chilling in the grass with family and friends.  

On the square, you find several of the city’s main attractions.

Sheik Lotfollah Mosque is maybe one of the most modest mosques in the city, but once you get to the main hall, it will leave you breathless. The rays of sun lighting up the middle of the big, empty room, carefully decorated in golden and blue mosaics gives this corner of Esfahan a truly spiritual feel to it.

Spend time in there and feel it, instead of just rushing out once you have taken your memorable photos.  

Just on the opposite side of Sheik Lotfollah Mosque is the Ali Qapu Palace, a 16th-century residential palace. The main attraction is the music room on the top floor and the large terrace with spectacular views of Naqsh-e Jahan Square.

On the end of the square, in a perfect triangle to Ali Qapu Palace and Sheik Lotfollah Mosque, you find the finest mosque in Esfahan, Shah Mosque.

Rising tall, it’s the first sight you’ll notice once you enter the square. Beautiful blue tiles blended with gold cover the whole structure inside out.

There is one point in the main hall where the acoustic is magical. It’s only allowed to sing Islamic verses so unless you know any, don’t try it yourself. However, if you hang around you might be lucky to witness Iranians sing.

On the opposite far end of Shah Mosque, you find the Geysarieh Portal which is the main entrance to the city’s bazaar. If you walk all the way through it, you will end up by the magnificent Jameh Mosque, which is the biggest mosque in Esfahan, and also one of the oldest.

Sheik Lotfollah Mosque in Esfahan

Kashan is an old city on the desert trade route holding a lot of culture and history.

It is without a doubt a much more traditional and conservative city compared to Esfahan or Iran’s capital, Tehran.

Holding a great number of historical houses, you can easily spend a week in Kashan. The most spectacular are Abbasi House, which also holds a traditional restaurant and tea house, and Tabatabaei House.

Don’t miss out on Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse which is spectacular inside but also the rooftop is pretty cool!

Kashan holds one of the oldest gardens in Iran, Fin Garden, but also one of the oldest bazaars, which was an important stop for traders of carpets and other goods.

Just outside the Kashan, you can walk through the biggest underground city in the world, Noushabad Underground City.

Tabatabaei House in Kashan

Maranjab Desert

The Maranjab Desert is one of the most important places to see in Iran. In a country that is 25 per cent desert, you can’t miss out on it.

Particularly this desert used to be an important part of the ancient Silk Road and you can visit an old caravanserai which welcomed travellers all the way back to the 16 th century. The adventurous can even stay the night!

The Maranjab Desert also holds one of Iran’s Salt Lakes and like any desert, magical sunsets!

As mentioned above, the desert is among the places to see in Iran that you shouldn’t miss out on.

So what about staying in a desert oasis? Garmeh is the perfect place to combine this with a day out in the desert and half a day exploring the oasis itself.  

There are old ruins of clay walls hidden between high grass and date palm trees, an old palace which now gives the feel of a ghost clay town.  

Unfortunately, many of the rooms are now used as a local dump ground.

Nevertheless, it’s unique to walk through it and imagine how this place must have looked like back in the days when a wealthy family reigned here.  

Make sure you see the natural spring and walk up the hill for views of the green oasis too!

In Garmeh there is one eco-resort which has accommodation. They are the ones offering the desert tours too.

Are you up for an authentic desert experience with a local? It will definitely be an experience of a lifetime where you among other places will see a salt river.

Garmeh natural spring

Nestled in the Karkas Mountains at 2220 meters of altitude you find one of Iran’s oldest villages, Abyaneh. It’s also called the red village as the houses are built with red clay.  

The most unique about the village is that the villagers still speak the same language as they did 2500 years ago, before Islamic times.

They also have the same customs and dress in the same clothes as back then. You will recognize the women’s flowery headscarves.  

To see the classical view of Abyaneh you need to head over to the old fortress ruins on the other side of the hill. The views are spectacular in all directions with the backdrop of the mountains.

The village is easy reached by car from either Esfahan or Kashan, but there is no public transport to get you there.  

Reflections on Iran

Both in Garmeh and the Maranjab desert, they offer camel rides. Make sure you act responsibly and say no thanks to animal tourism. This includes the horse carriages in Esfahan.

There are so many other ways you can support the locals economically that you don’t need to let animals suffer on your behalf.

There are so many beautiful and unique places to see in Iran that you can gladly spend a lifetime exploring the country, but with these 5 places, you have a good starting point that covers a lot of what the country has to offer.  

However, the most important thing you can do on your trip to Iran is to give yourself time to connect to the friendly people!

Guest Author bio:

Linn Haglund has mostly been travelling and living abroad after finishing her studies in Tourism and Communication. Her big passion is to travel, get to know new cultures, and spending time in the great outdoors. Unfortunately, she has also felt the negatives of tourism up close. That’s why she created Brainy Backpackers to help travellers explore the world in a responsible way respecting people, animals, and the environment.

For more reading on Iran check out Backpackingman’s post on why you should visit Iran .

I recommend using SafetyWing Travel Insurance for your trip, just in case, it’s best to be prepared.

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25 Unmissable Things To Do In Tehran: Iran’s Chaotic Capital

Posted on Last updated: December 15, 2023

Categories Iran

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

Crazy, chaotic, surprising at every turn – Tehran, the smoggy capital of Iran, is more than just an eternal traffic jam.

The political, cultural, and economic heart of the Islamic Republic, one can not truly experience this dynamic country without spending at least a few days here…And don’t worry, there is no shortage of things to do in Tehran!

While many travelers make the mistake of rushing past Tehran in a race to the more historical cities of Iran, there is so much more here than meets the eye. With 14 million inhabitants, Tehran is one of the most dynamic and interesting cities in the world.

With glorious museums, huge bazaars, captivating people, and yes – even the notorious former US embassy, that was the focal point of the Iranian hostage crisis.

Thankfully today, Tehran is the most liberal and secular place in Iran, a city whose inhabitants are constantly pushing up against authority, whether it’s at one of Tehran’s many universities, in a contemporary coffee-shop or a modern art museum.

Through Tehran, you can get an idea of what the future of Iran might look like if many of the regimes more progressive elements get their way.

Throw in a spectacular mountain range, a few architectural gems, delicious food, and some of the friendliest people in the world, and you begin to see why Tehran is one destination in Iran you absolutely cannot miss!

25 Unmissable Things To Do In Tehran: Iran’s Chaotic Capital 🇮🇷

Page Contents

1. Tehran Grand Bazaar

2. tabi’at bridge / nature bridge tehran, 3. azadi tower, 4. golestan palace unesco world heritage site, 5. hi tehran hostel, 6. us den of espionage / embassy of the united states in tehran, 7. museum of the qasr prison, 8. tochal telecabin tehran, 9. skiing in iran, 10. tehran metro art, 11. wander tehran, 12. tehran museum of contemporary art (tmoca), 13. sa’d abad museum complex, 14. park e shahr / tehran city park, 15. museum of ancient iran, 16. museum of the islamic era, 17. islamic revolution & holy defense museum, 18. imamzadeh saleh / tajrish mosque, 19. tehran shopping malls, 20. saint sarkis cathedral, 21. sharaf al-eslami restaurant, 22. cinema museum of iran, 23. snapp / iranian uber, 24. tehran coffeeshops, 25. tehran street food, how to get to tehran iran, where to go after tehran when you visit iran.

Characterized as an old historical bazaar, but the Tehran Grand Bazaar is so much more than that, still to this day acting as a vital economic center of Tehran where everyone comes to buy anything.

You name it; you can find it here if you wander for long enough through its seemingly endless labyrinths of covered alleys. Make sure you have a map on your phone and then get as lost as you can, safe in the knowledge you will somehow find your way back!

Incredibly photogenic, be sure to visit the Tehran Grand Bazaar in the morning before all the stock gets refilled in the afternoon by scary fast-moving haulage equipment, which somewhat distracts from the experience.

Iranian carpet sellers will undoubtedly try to befriend you. They can make an interesting guide if you don’t mind the hard sell at the end (although in our experience they knew Westerners generally couldn’t afford their outrageous prices and were just happy to chat!)

A 270-meter three-level bridge connecting two parks in Tehran, the Tabi’at Bridge is probably the most beautiful piece of urban architecture built since the revolution.

Opened in 2014, the Tabi’at Bridge (also known as the Nature Bridge in Tehran) is a popular hang out for Iranian’s who come to enjoy a variety of dining options, views, and relaxation areas. Even more incredibly- the Tabi’at Bridge was the brainchild of an Iranian architecture student, Leila Araghian, who was only 26 at the time.

Winning design competitions all over the world – the Tabi’at Bridge should not be missed, and we can’t wait to see what Leila Araghian comes up with next!

An icon of Iran known around the world, the Azadi Tower – known as the Shah’s Memorial Tower before the revolution – marking the west entrance to Tehran and is part of the Azadi Cultural Complex.

There is a museum underground which is included in your ticket are you can either walk or take two elevators up the 45-meter tall structure. And yes, the entire thing is clad in cut marble so you can imagine how incredible it looks at sunset (though the views at the top are pretty incredible too!).

The Azadi Tower was built to mark the 2,500th anniversary of the foundation of the Imperial State of Iran by architect Hossein Amanat who based the design upon classical Iranian architecture. The entire grand design was financed by the huge wealth generated by Iran as a major oil-producing nation before the revolution; however, as a member of the persecuted Bahá’í Faith, Amanat fled Iran to Israel during the 1979 Iranian Revolution.

He went on to design the equally famous Bahá’í Arc buildings in Haifa, Israel, and weirdly enough – the House of Worship in Samoa.

The incredibly lavish Golestan Palace is widely regarded as a defining work of the Qajar era thanks to the marriage of Persian craft architecture with Western influences.

That is why it was rewarded UNESCO World Heritage Status , and quite rightly, I think!

The Palace is one of the oldest buildings in Tehran, and when the Qajar family came into power here in 1779, they made this remarkable the capital of Iran – where it has stayed ever since. Glorious and outrageously excessive, the Golestan Palace is one thing to do in Tehran you absolutely cannot skip.

However, be aware that with a total-ticket price of 850 000 rials (app. 25USD), it is tied with the far less-worthy Sa’d Abad Museum Complex for the most expensive museum in Iran.

Information about Iran can be hard to come by outside the country, so it pays to have a super-reliable place to connect with travelers with helpful locals on hand when you arrive.

This is why I loved staying at HI Tehran Hostel , a full-renovated hostel in a quiet street just minutes from many of Tehran’s top tourist attractions and a Tehran Metro Station. While the modern facilities, spacious dorms, and private food and free breakfast were excellent, what I loved most was the atmosphere as the staff would always be chatting at the communal breakfast table and answering everyone’s questions.

It’s also a great place to meet other travelers, either beginning or ending their trip to exchange money, find companions, get ideas, or just to swaps stories! I stayed here both at the beginning and end of my journey and would return to HI Tehran Hostel in a heart-beat!

Oh, and another nice bonus: HI Tehran Hostel provide an invitation via email needed to get the Iran visa on arrival at Tehran Airport, and the immigration staff seems to be so familiar with the hostel they didn’t even bother calling to confirm.

This meant I was out of the airport while other travelers were waiting for their hostel to answer the phone in the middle of the night (though I later called the hostel at 3 AM when I was lost, and they responded in a few seconds – they really are 24/7)

The famous former US embassy in Tehran, where 52 diplomats were taken hostage for 444 days by students during the 1979 revolution!

Even today, the massive compound is still controlled by the Student Basij Organisation, who are tasked with defending the revolution and have turned the building into a museum. Be sure to take the free tour to make the most of the colorful propaganda both visually and spoken.

It is also absolutely fascinating to see the once-secret rooms used for spying now embarrassingly on full display – and to get a real sense of the work undertaken in the US embassy before the revolution.

Truly like walking back in time and straight onto a movie set, you can’t miss the opportunity to visit the historic US Den of Espionage.

Newly opened, the Museum of the Qasr Prison in Tehran is a dark look into the Pahlavi-era prison complex, renowned for psychological and physical torture.

Former prisoners still guide here somedays and will share memories of their torture, including broken teeth and amputated limbs. The former Qasr Prison gardens have been turned into a beautiful park, and while the main historic prison building may be the focus (with stunning brickwork none the less) don’t miss the much darker and newer concrete building at the back of the complex where recordings still play the screams of torture.

Here you get an intensely real look into what life was like in this prison just before and during the revolution here, but it is not for the faint-of-heart.

If the inevitable smog of Tehran gets a bit too much for you – why not head to the mountains with the Tochal Telecabin / Sky Lift! Located in the north of Tehran.

You can make a 45 minutes trip straight up and then couples with a short scramble you can easily summit Mt Tochal (3933m). As you would expect, the views are out of this world – both of the mountains and back down over the chaos that is Tehran – and if you’re feeling fit, there is plenty of hiking opportunities at the different stations along the way!

Super popular with local Tehranis during the weekend, but don’t make the same mistake as us and try to visit the Tochal Telecabin during the week – We were told it is closed for the first three days after the weekend, every week?! So that means the Tochal Telecabin opening hours are supposably Wednesday – Saturday, but best to call ahead before making the trip out there (best reached by taxi) and to go early as the last car back down is apparently 3 PM…

Like many things in Iran, it’s better not to question it!

Even though the majority of Iran is pretty much a desert, there is still some great skiing in Iran – and some of the cheapest skiing in the world!

While global warming seems to be shortening the season for skiing in Iran, you can get some pretty good powder for skiing in Tehran from January. The Tochal Ski resort is located at the end of the above cable car and makes a great day-trip, but if you are really serious, you are going to want to head to the nearby Dizin Ski Resort or Shemshak Ski Resort from Tehran. Not what you were expecting to do in Iran, right!

Just make sure you have everything you need for your first time skiing as you won’t be able to buy in Iran.

Continually expanding, the Tehran Metro is the lifeline of Tehran and carries over 3 million passengers a day while the streets above are in near-constant grid-lock.

Cheap and easy-to-use, there is also a bonus for tourists – if you pay attention, the Tehran Metro is the best place to see propaganda in Iran!

Constantly changing, pay special attention to the platforms, or the long entrance corridors to see cartoons and artwork depicting everything from the morals taught in the Quran and daily life in Iran to rather harsh and graphic anti-US and anti-Israel pieces. It doesn’t have as much artistic merit as the Stockholm Metro Art or Msheireb station in nearby Doha, Qatar … but it arguably more interesting!

While these Tehran metro cartoons make a great picture to share with friends back home, be discrete when taking photos and remember that the views expressed are directly from a government department and by-and-large not reflective of Iranian society at large (or at least many of the more liberal Tehranis)…

While each time crossing the road might be a near-death experience, there is no better way to get to experience the social fabric and stumble upon hidden gems in Tehran than to simply wander.

Instead of taking a taxi or heading a few stops on the Tehran Metro, why not get your walk on and see what you come across! Small parks, street food, intriguing shops, and hidden bazaars, there really is no telling! Expect a great many people to stop, and thank you for visiting Iran — and question you on your experiences in Iran so far.

Besides, if you ever are lost these people are great to help you find the nearest Metro, coffee-shop, museum or restaurant!

While Iran might not be a world leader in contemporary art today, you should still visit the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art to see the stunning collection of 19th and 20th century’s world-class European and American pieces.

Opened by Empress Farah Pahlavi in 1977 – just two years before the Revolution – TMoCA is said to hold the most valuable collections of modern Western masterpieces outside Europe and North America . However, most were hidden away until recently when they have again been put on display.

Possibly even more intriguing, however, is the liberal Tehranis that are drawn to the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art. Inside you’ll find many people rebelliously removing their hijabs, and you could easily imagine yourself in an art gallery in Western Europe or the US!

A sprawling 300-hectare complex built by the Qajar and Pahlavi monarchs in a similar pattern to the oil-rich rulers of Saudi and the Gulf States today…

Now open to the public, the Sa’ dabad Complex, while expensive by Iranian standards, is a beautiful place to wander and admire the natural forest, qanats, and buildings. Each museum is individually chargeable and, in our opinion — not at all worth it. Except, perhaps, for the famous Green House (with its outlandish hall of mirrors) —  which is currently under renovation.

There is also a collection of royal cars if you have a passion for vintage sports cars, but you can see them in only a few minutes. Look out for the President of Iran who has taken up residence in a private section of the Sa’ dabad Complex.

Don’t worry; there are plenty of armed guards to stop you accidentally wandering in!

A sprawling park in central Tehran near to all the major museums in the district. Take a wander through and admire the bizarre bird park, aquarium, and library.

The Tehran Peace Museum is also located here with strange opening hours – take a peek in if it is open. You can also find plenty of cats roaming around and can join in a game of ping-pong with the locals who gather here to relax and unwind.

The Park-e Shahr is probably the only place big enough to escape the constant traffic and honking in Central Tehran!

Housing historical objects from Iran’s pre-Islam, you would expect the Museum of Ancient Iran to be one of the most glorious in the country – but sadly, it is entirely underwhelming and a wasted opportunity.

Housing objects from the Shah era, the museum was opened after the revolution, and you get the feeling that the government did not want to venerate any part of Iran’s past before Islam. Still, if you’re interested in ancient history, you should still take a wander through.

Islam’s post-Islamic history is displayed next door and charged separately (and weirdly enough, the Museum of Ancient Iran is almost twice the price but nowhere near as good…)

Next door to the above Museum of Ancient Iran and far better, the Museum of the Islamic Era is one of the top museums in Tehran.

Recently reopened after a nine-year renovation, this three-story building displays over 1500 items and relics from the early Islamic period as well as Seljuk, Ilkhanid, Teymurid, Safavid, and Qajar eras. Beautifully done, you won’t want to rush through as you take in all the details of the ancient rugs, painting, plates, pots, and more.

There is also a temporary exhibition space on the ground floor changing every six months.

An outsized experiment in glorification with more than a hint of propaganda, the Iran Holy Defense Museum is easily one of the things to do in Tehran.

Focussing on the bloody Iran-Iraq war, which left over a million lives lost, there are over seven halls here going into minute details of every imaginable aspect of the conflict – though mostly through displays, walk-through models, visual effects and more. This is a very high-tech museum – if a little surreal – after which you might have a better idea of this harrowing episode in modern Iranian history.

The bridge of the martyrs here is especially fascinating —  and there are huge tanks, rockets, and planes outside.

Visit the beautiful Tajrish Mosque officially known as the Imamzadeh Saleh to see the entombed remains of Saleh, a son of the Twelver Shia Imam, Musa al-Kadhim.

One of the most famous shrines in Tehran, the interior is particularly spectacular and was our favorite mosque in Tehran. Make sure not to visit during prayer as it is far too busy, and you are likely not to be let in – but during other times, we found foreigners were welcomed, and someone is likely to take an interest in you and offer you a tour!

So as a tourist, you’re probably not going to Tehran for the shopping – and especially not given that you need to bring cash for everything you buy!

But a visit to the Tehran Shopping Malls is not just about shopping!

With giant food courts, arcades, and plenty of Iranian / independent stores, they are a socializing space for Tehran rising middle-and-upper class and a great place to meet young, educated Iranians.

While most Tehran Shopping Malls are mega-monstrosities and impressive to wander around for a bit, the best is the Palladium shopping center (with the largest toy store in the Middle East ), the Arg Commercial Complex (with its luxury stores and beautiful outdoor interactive facade)and the Sam Commercial Complex.

The largest church in Tehran, the Saint Sarkis Cathedral of the Armenian Apostolic, was completed in 1970.

While a Cathedral might not be top of your list of things to do in Tehran, you should not miss the opportunity to see Christian life play out in the Islamic Republic – complete with imposing giant walls, barbed wire, and strict security, though as a foreigner you will be welcomed in.

Forbidden from practicing their faith in public, the spires of the church are barely visible outside the compound. The surrounding area is intensely covered in pro-Islam murals and billboards.

This historic restaurant is hidden away in the Tehran Central Bazaar, but you can find Sharaf El Islam by following the throng of people until you see a line heading into a crowded basement.

Here you can try some of the best traditional food in Tehran in a crowded and frantic setting. The service is rushed, and people will hover to get a table — and  it all adds to the atmosphere! If you make it here, you’ll really be in the know, and 99% of the time, you’ll only be joined by locals.

Located in the north of Tehran is a stunning Qajar-era mansion complex with historic garden, the Cinema Museum of Iran is a curious mix of equipment, posters, and photos from the Iranian movie industry dating back over the last century – and all in English!

There is even a beautiful working cinema with ornate molding showing new and classic Iranian films – though without subtitles, but still intriguing.

So not really a thing to do, but everyone traveling to Tehran should have Snapp downloaded on their phone as it halves the price of taxi’s – and lets you get where you need to go without language barriers.

While it might be blocked on the Apple App store, you can still download Snapp for iPhone with this handy workaround. Basically, Uber in Iran, Snapp let you explore the more remote attractions of Tehran that are not easily reached via Subway, and is helpful if you’re a larger group – though prices are set and very low!

Though you will get a first-hand experience of the insane driving in Tehran.

I recommend sitting in the back-seat and potentially blindfolding yourself as some things are better not seen!

A hotbed of liberalism in Iran since the removal of sanctions — a café culture has exploded across Tehran as many more wealthy Iranians got a taste of Western culture and cosmopolitanism.

With some pretty decent views, coffee shops in Tehran are also a great place to meet young Iranians, engage in open discussion, or just to watch the unique culture that takes place here. A few years ago, many were raided as women were known not to wear hijabs inside.

Still, the authorities seem to be looking the other way again – but the morality police crackdown of 2013 makes for an exciting read. Lamiz Coffee is the Starbucks of Tehran with multiple locations (yet annoyingly no WiFi), but you should also stop by the historic Gol Rezaieh Café or the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art Café.

To be honest, so many have opened up over the past year it’s hard to keep track of the best – so just ask your hostel in Tehran for their recommendation nearby, or better yet just stop someone young and trendy on the streets!

While all over Tehran you will find plenty of traditional street food – and you should try as much as you can (check here for Iranian street food to watch out for) – we are specifically talking about the street food of 30th Tir Steet outside the National Museum of Iran. Trendy and oh-so-cool, swing by here in the afternoon or evening for a lively atmosphere, intriguing food trucks + carts, and some nice outdoor seating.

You will surely be joined quickly by locals who will be quick to recommend their favorite spots, to help you with a translation and let you know all their favorite things to do in Tehran!

The undeniable hub and main entry point of Iran getting to Tehran is easy via bus, train, and flight.

There are direct flights to Tehran daily from all over the Middle East, Europe, and even with Air Asia to Kuala Lumpur if you’re coming from that direction. You can also find direct flights to most major cities in Iran at least a few times of the week, multiple times daily for major cities.

You can also get overnight sleeper trains to and from almost every major city in Iran. As a major transport hub in Iran and the greater region, you should have no problem getting in and out of Tehran.

Are you planning on exploring more than just one city in Iran? Here are some excellent other guides and cities to continue on your trip around Iran – or you can just check out these top things to do in Iran.

And if you want even more adventure – and to get out into nature while exploring off-the-beaten-track in Iran – why not consider hiring a rental car in Iran ? What could be better, right!

Bam – A UNESCO World Heritage Listed Fortress in South Iran. This famous desert castle was devastated by an earthquake in 2003, but after a 15-year renovation is now back and open for business. Find out more in this Arg-e Bam Travel Guide 2018: Now The Most Quake-Proof City in Iran

Kerman – A rather dull city, surrounded by some of the best desert landscapes in Iran. Get off-the-beaten-track and see Iran without the tourists with these 10 Things To See And Do In Kerman Iran.

Isfahan – The most beautiful and grand city in Iran, with 3 UNESCO sites and stunning architecture – This is one city you just cannot miss. On Iran’s Golden Triangle, read the ultimate guide to Isfahan.

Shiraz – Often referred to as the cradle of Persian civilization, explore multiple ancient ruins, beautiful mosques, delicious food, and surreal natural landscapes. Intrigued? See these 12 unmissable things to do in Shiraz, Iran.

Shushtar – A hidden gem if ever there was one, Shushtar is really in the proverbial backwood. If you make the effort, however, you will be rewarded by some of the friendliest people in Iran, incredible ancient structures, and delicious food! Find out everything you need to visit Shushtar in Iran.

Tabriz – The largest city in Northern Iran with unique Azari culture, the most beautiful bazaar in Iran, and with a spectacular mountain backdrop. Read these 12 Epic Things to do in Tabriz, the 2018 Tourism Capital City of Islamic Countries

Yazd – An ancient city that appears miraculous out of a desert plateau. Yazd is one of Iran’s biggest highlights and one of the most unique cities on Earth. Check out these ten amazing things to do in Yazd, Iran.

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Campus Protests Give Russia, China and Iran Fuel to Exploit U.S. Divide

America’s adversaries have mounted online campaigns to amplify the social and political conflicts over Gaza flaring at universities, researchers say.

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By Steven Lee Myers and Tiffany Hsu

An article on a fake online news outlet that Meta has linked to Russia’s information operations attributed the clashes unfolding on American college campuses to the failures of the Biden administration. A newspaper controlled by the Communist Party of China said the police crackdowns exposed the “double standards and hypocrisy” in the United States when it comes to free speech.

On X, a spokesman for Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nasser Kanaani, posted a cartoon of the police arresting a young protester in the guise of the Statue of Liberty. “Imprisonment of #freedom in the U.S.A.,” he wrote.

As protests over the war in Gaza have spread across the United States, Russia, China and Iran have seized on them to score geopolitical points abroad and stoke tensions within the United States, according to researchers who have identified both overt and covert efforts by the countries to amplify the protests since they began.

There is little evidence — at least so far — that the countries have provided material or organizational support to the protests, the way Russia recruited unwitting Black Lives Matter protesters to stage rallies before the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections.

Nonetheless, the campaigns have portrayed the United States as a country rived by social and political turmoil. In the past two weeks alone, state media in Russia, China and Iran have produced nearly 400 articles in English about the protests, according to NewsGuard, an organization that tracks misinformation online. The countries have also unleashed a wave of content through inauthentic accounts or bots on social media platforms like X and Telegram or websites created, in Russia’s case, to mimic Western news organizations.

“It’s a wound that our adversaries are going to try to spread salt on because they can,” said Darren Linvill, a director of the Media Forensics Hub at Clemson University, which has identified campaigns by all three countries. “The more we fight amongst ourselves, the easier their life is and the more they can get away with.”

Researchers are concerned that some foreign influence operations are also pivoting toward the presidential election in November, seeking to inflame partisan tensions , denigrate democracy and promote isolationism . All three adversaries have unleashed a deluge of propaganda and disinformation ever since the war over Gaza began in October, seeking to undercut Israel and, as its principal ally, the United States while expressing support for Hamas or the Palestinians generally.

The campus protests, which gained momentum in recent weeks, have allowed them to shift their propaganda to focus on the Biden administration’s strong support for Israel, arguing that it has undermined its international standing while not reflecting popular sentiment at home.

“The policies of the Biden administration are complicating the situation inside the country,” the article on TruthGate, one of a handful of websites that Meta said last year were created by a Russian information operation known as Doppelgänger to spread propaganda under the guise of an American news outlet, said on Wednesday. “In the rush to help our controversial allies, they have completely forgotten about domestic affairs. Now the situation seems irreparable.”

The influence efforts have been tracked by researchers at Clemson and NewsGuard, as well as the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute and Recorded Future, a threat intelligence company.

One covert Chinese influence campaign known as Spamouflage , which was first linked to an arm of the Ministry of Public Security in 2019, has also turned its attention to the protests. Some posts on X claimed that the United States was “DISPLAYING TOTALITARIANISM.” Similar language — such as “how could there be such rough police officers in the world” and “expulsion, arrest, suppression!” — echoed across several accounts identified by the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, a research organization in Washington focused on national security.

Max Lesser, a senior analyst for the foundation, described the “high volume” of protest-related content as “a clear example of a foreign adversary actively exploiting an ongoing domestic crisis.”

Many of the accounts linked to Spamouflage share similar content. One on X, with nearly 18,000 followers, retweeted a post from a Chinese diplomat in Pakistan that criticized the police response to student protesters and featured Mandarin-subtitled footage of the campus demonstrations. Its profile photo was an image of Winter, the South Korean pop singer. It listed its location as the United States but typically posted during Asia’s day, while its content frequently included grammatical errors.

Another account on X, which according to Mr. Linvill of Clemson was also linked to Spamouflage, an operation sometimes known as Dragonbridge, reposted a message by a prominent pro-Palestinian organization in New York City calling on protesters to “flood the encampments” at the city’s universities.

The researchers, however, have not detected a direct effort to organize protests or provoke violence. The focus, rather, has been to highlight the divisions that the war in Gaza has exposed in public opinion in the United States — and the potential effect that has on government policy.

Brian Liston, an analyst with Recorded Future, said that in the case of Russia, the campaign “was attempting to stoke tensions on both sides of the protest argument,” alternately praising the protesters and denouncing them as antisemitic.

In many instances, the campaigns are simply amplifying sentiments expressed by the protesters and their supporters. Chen Weihua, an outspoken editor and columnist for China Daily, the official state newspaper in English, has recently reposted messages on X from people like Jill Stein, the presidential candidate of the Green Party, and Cynthia Nixon, the actress from “Sex in the City.”

For China, the scenes of American police officers in riot gear arresting young protesters have particular resonance because of the sharp criticism the Communist government faced from the United States and other democracies when its security forces clashed with protesters in Hong Kong for months in 2019 over the reversal of political freedoms that the government had promised to preserve in the former British colony.

“When Hong Kong students destroyed schools, blocked roads, and threw gasoline bombs, the United States told the Hong Kong government to exercise restraint and not disrupt reasonable demonstrations,” one account linked to Spamouflage declared. “Now facing American students, the police take direct action and arrest them!”

Melanie Smith, the director of research for the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, a research organization that studies online disinformation, polarization and extremism, said China’s efforts had become notably more aggressive toward the Biden administration.

Her organization and others previously identified an incipient effort to undermine President Biden’s re-election prospects. That effort has included creating fake accounts posing as those run by Americans critical of Mr. Biden’s policies.

“Their content is relatively aggressively talking about how young people are unlikely to vote for Biden over this as an issue,” Ms. Smith said of the Chinese response to the protests.

Bret Schafer, a senior fellow at the German Marshall Fund who studies information manipulation, said China, Russia and Iran had different motivations for getting involved. They all, however, benefited from highlighting narratives that damage global perceptions of the United States. State media in Iran, which has long supported Hamas, has posted more about the protests than Russia or China and amplified criticism of the police response from American commentators such as Jackson Hinkle , he said.

The emphasis on the protests follows similar efforts to criticize the $95.3 billion foreign aid package for Israel, Taiwan and Ukraine that Congress passed and Mr. Biden signed last month.

The Information Epidemiology Lab, a research group that studies malign influence campaigns, said the Russian information operation Doppelgänger had been posting content critical of the aid package or focused on the political debate surrounding it. The goal is to portray the United States as an unreliable global ally — some posts claimed that it had abandoned Israel.

Instead, the posts suggested, Israel and other countries should seek new partnerships with Russia and China. Another series of posts shared an article from a website masquerading as Fox News, which claimed that former President Donald J. Trump would “stop the plundering of the U.S. budget.”

Steven Lee Myers covers misinformation and disinformation from San Francisco. Since joining The Times in 1989, he has reported from around the world, including Moscow, Baghdad, Beijing and Seoul. More about Steven Lee Myers

Tiffany Hsu reports on misinformation and disinformation and its origins, movement and consequences. She has been a journalist for more than two decades. More about Tiffany Hsu

Our Coverage of the U.S. Campus Protests

News and Analysis

Penn:  The Philadelphia Police Department cleared an encampment of pro-Palestinian demonstrators  off the campus of the University of Pennsylvania, making arrests and bringing an end to a two-week standoff  between administrators and protesting students.

M.I.T.:  The police entered a pro-Palestinian encampment at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and arrested about a dozen demonstrators , in what appeared to be an effort to clear the area after days of tensions.

Princeton:  The eruptions that have marked campus life have entered the hunger strike phase at Princeton University, where about a dozen students occupying a corner of Cannon Green were on the fifth day of a fast in solidarity  with the idea of Palestinian liberation.

A Brief Moment of Joy :  With fireworks, a marching band, celebrity congratulations and a drone show, the University of Southern California tried to smooth over the weeks of tumult that have cleaved its campus with a hastily assembled party for its graduates .

An Agreement to Divest :  Discontent over the war in Gaza had been building for months at Trinity College Dublin, but what had been a rumble suddenly became a roar . Here’s how pro-Palestinian students pushed  the school to divest.

Hillary Clinton’s Accusation :  In an interview on the MSNBC show “Morning Joe,” Clinton criticized student protesters , saying many were ignorant of the history of the Middle East, the United States and the world.

Republican Hypocrisy:  Prominent Republicans have seized on campus protests to assail what they say is antisemitism on the left. But for years they have mainstreamed anti-Jewish rhetoric .

Iran willing to 'expend every Arab life' in efforts to destroy Israel, former US security adviser says

HR McMaster also said it "broke my heart" to see the reduction in the capacity of the UK's armed forces as countries need to "demonstrate strength" to prevent further conflict.

Thursday 2 May 2024 10:07, UK

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Iran is willing to "expend every Arab life" in its efforts to end Western influence in the Middle East and destroy Israel, a former US national security adviser has said.

HR McMaster, who held the position between 2017 and 2018 during the Trump presidency, told Sky News that there is still a risk of escalation between Iran and Israel after the two nations carried out attacks on each other in April.

Iran said its attack on Saturday 13 April was a retaliation after two of its generals were killed in a strike in Syria's capital, Damascus, which Tehran blames on Israel.

Israel responded to the Iranian attack by carrying out a strike on Isfahan - home to both a military base and nuclear site in Iran.

Asked whether there could be further escalation between the two regional rivals, Mr McMaster said: "Iran is pursuing a strategy in which they hope we continue to pretend like we don't understand what the return address is for all this violence.

"And in a horrible, cynical way, Iran is willing to expend every Arab life, if necessary, to accomplish its objectives of pushing the United States, the United Kingdom and our allies out of the region as the first step in establishing hegemonic power in the region and destroying Israel.

"That's really what they want to do. And I think the longer that we act as if we don't know what the return address is, Iran is going to continue to escalate these horrible actions to create horrible human suffering not only on the part of the Israelis, but on the part of the Palestinians too."

Asked whether the West could be drawn into leading a response to any future Iranian aggression in the region, Mr McMaster said: "Absolutely, I think it's coming because Iran seems to be emboldened, even though they have all sorts of internal dissent happening now... They seem to be emboldened internationally... I think we need to tell the Iranians we're going to begin to impose severe costs on you.

"And these don't have to be military right away.

"I think there's tonnes of room to enforce the sanctions that are already on the books, the sanctions that the Biden administration chose not to enforce."

Mr McMaster also said that the reduction in capacity of the UK's armed forces "broke my heart" as military sources and Cold War veterans warned Britain is increasingly vulnerable to the threat of missiles and drones after decades of cost-saving cuts.

He added that it would be "difficult for the UK to sustain operations" for "ample duration to fight and win" in a future conflict.

In an apparent reference to some NATO countries not meeting their defence spending targets, Mr McCaster continued: "I think we have to realise that we have been over-optimistic for too long about the geostrategic conditions and the need to demonstrate strength to prevent further conflict."

Read more: Aid passes through Gaza's 'lifeline' northern crossing Around 300 arrested as police break up US university protests Deal between Israel and Hamas 'not far off'

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Asked whether the recent $61bn military aid package for Ukraine will have an impact on the war there, Mr McMaster said: "It's a game-changer... I hope it's not too late...

" Ukraine are fighting as best they can with what they've got. We've got to get them the ammunition now."

He added that the "halting" and "inconsistent" manner in which the US has provided aid has denied Ukraine the ability to protect its people and stop the Russian offensive.

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Iran has launched a new crackdown on women defying its strict dress code

Iran has launched a major new crackdown on women defying the country’s strict dress code, deploying large numbers of police to enforce laws requiring women to wear headscarves in public, according to human rights advocates.

The campaign began last month just as military tensions spiked between Iran and Israel .

Condemning the effort as a “war on women,” Amnesty International said in a statement this week that “security forces across the country have intensified their violent enforcement of compulsory veiling.”

Dubbed the “Noor” (Light) campaign, Iranian officials say the operation is aimed at enforcing the country’s mandatory hijab law, which requires women to cover their heads and the shape of their bodies. The operation marks the most serious effort yet by the regime to try to reassert the government’s authority after women-led protests in 2022 and 2023 challenged the mandatory hijab law.

The protests erupted in the wake of the September 2022 death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in a hospital three days after she was detained by the country’s morality police for allegedly not adhering to the mandatory headscarf law.

The demonstrations, which came to be known as the “Women, Life, Freedom” movement, were eventually crushed, but many women and girls across the country have continued to flout the dress code, appearing in public with their hair uncovered.

The police operation could have “tragic consequences,” Hadi Ghaemi, the executive director of the New York-based Center for Human Rights in Iran, told NBC News.

“Amid increasing dissent at home and international attention focused on regional tensions, the Islamic Republic is grabbing the opportunity to intensify its campaign of repression against dissent,” Ghaemi said in an earlier statement.

“Women and girls in Iran are already subjected to severe discrimination in Iran, yet these actions significantly increase the threat of unchecked state violence against them,” he said.

Tehran police chief Abbasali Mohammadian announced the operation on state TV on April 13, just as Iran launched its drone and missile attack on Israel.

“Starting today, police in Tehran and other cities will carry out measures against those who violate the hijab law,” the police chief said.

The United Nations Human Rights Office has expressed concern over the crackdown.

“What we have seen, what we’re hearing is, in the past months, that the authorities, whether they be plainclothes police or policemen in uniform, are increasingly enforcing the hijab bill,” Jeremy Laurence, a spokesman for the office, told reporters last month.

“There have been reports of widespread arrests and harassment of women and girls — many between the ages of 15 and 17,” he said.

Laurence also said hundreds of businesses and restaurants have been shut down by authorities for allegedly failing to enforce the hijab law.

A U.N. fact-finding mission said in March that Iran is to blame for the “physical violence” that killed Amini and found that Iran committed crimes against humanity in its violent repression of the subsequent protests.

Iran has denied responsibility for Amini’s death  and rejected accusations from human rights organizations, witnesses and foreign governments that it crushed peaceful protests with violence.

Dan De Luce is a reporter for the NBC News Investigative Unit. 

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Top 10 countries with the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2024; Check India’s rank

Unesco includes 1,172 world heritage sites located across 166 countries. here are the top 10 countries with the most heritage sites as of 2024. .

UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) is dedicated to preserving and promoting the world’s cultural and natural heritage.

Since its inception in 1945, UNESCO’s World Heritage list recognises sites that are deemed to have outstanding universal value, transcending national borders and cultural boundaries.

It has grown to encompass a diverse array of cultural and natural sites that are of exceptional value to humanity. These sites highlight the diversity and richness of cultural and natural heritage across the globe.

As of 2024, the list includes 1,172   World Heritage Sites located across 166 countries; Here are the top 10 countries with the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as of 2024.

1. Italy: 59

Italy holds the distinction of having the highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, totalling 59 as of 2024. Italy’s UNESCO journey began in 1979 with its first site, the Rock Drawings in Valcamonica, and saw a significant rise in UNESCO recognitions during the 1990s, adding 25 sites, including a notable 10 in 1997. From the iconic architectural wonders of Rome, Florence, and Venice to the breathtaking natural landscapes of the Amalfi Coast and the Dolomites, each site has a unique story, from ancient Roman ruins to the artistic marvels of the Renaissance era

2. China: 57

China, coming in second with 57 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, closely follows Italy in the rankings. China became a member of the World Heritage Convention in 1985. With its impressive tally of 57 sites, among the notable attractions are the iconic Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, the Terracotta Army, Jiuzhaigou Valley, Mount Huangshan, and more.

3. Germany: 52

Germany has the third highest number of World Heritage Sites, with 52 sites, including 48 cultural sites and 3 natural sites. Notable landmarks include the Cologne Cathedral and Berlin’s Museum Island. Germany’s commitment to preserving cultural history and natural landscapes is exemplified by natural sites like the Wadden Sea and ancient beech forests.

4. France: 52

France, with 52 World Heritage Sites, is on par with Germany, renowned for its cultural significance and natural beauty, including the Eiffel Tower, Mont-Saint-Michel, and the Palace and Park of Versailles, celebrating its historical depth, architectural innovation, and influential art and culture that have shaped the Western world.

5. Spain: 50

Spain, with 50 World Heritage Sites and 50 UNESCO sites, showcases its diverse cultural heritage influenced by various civilisations, including the Romans and Moors. Famous sites include the Alhambra in Granada, the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, and the historic city of Toledo.

6. India: 42

India has 42 World Heritage Sites as of 2023 – 34 cultural, 7 natural, and 1 mixed. India ratified the convention in 1977. It has the sixth-highest number of sites globally. India, with 42 sites, offers a remarkable variety of cultural and natural treasures. From the architectural grandeur of the Taj Mahal and the temples of Khajuraho to the natural wonders of the Western Ghats and Sundarbans, these sites highlight the rich cultural, spiritual, and natural heritage of the subcontinent.

7. Mexico: 35

Mexico has 35 World Heritage Sites, including 27 cultural, 6 natural, and 2 mixed sites, ratified in 1984. These sites showcase Mexico’s rich history, biodiversity, and cultural traditions, including ancient pre-Hispanic cities like Teotihuacan and natural reserves like the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve.

8. United Kingdom: 33

The UK has 33 World Heritage Sites, including 18 in England, 5 in Scotland, 4 in Wales, and 1 in Northern Ireland, Bermuda, Gibraltar, the Pitcairn Islands, and Saint Helena. It also has 33 UNESCO sites, including historical sites like Stonehenge and the Tower of London and natural sites like the Giant’s Causeway and Lake District.

9. Russia: 31

Russia has 31 World Heritage Sites, including St. Petersburg, Moscow, and Kizhi Pogost, which showcase its rich historical narrative and diverse landscapes. The first five were added in 1990, during the Soviet Union. These sites showcase cultural and natural landmarks like Saint Petersburg’s historic centre, Moscow’s Kremlin and Red Square, and Kamchatka volcanoes.

10. Iran: 27

Iran has 27 World Heritage Sites, including Persepolis and Isfahan, added in 1979. Iran ratified the UNESCO convention in 1975, reflecting its ancient civilisations and cultural contributions. Sites like Persepolis, Persian Garden, and Tabriz bazaar offer insights into the country’s historical depth and architectural achievements, influencing art and culture in the Middle East.

In essence, the mission of the UNESCO World Heritage program is to identify, protect, and promote cultural and natural sites of exceptional value to humanity, fostering international cooperation to preserve these places for current and future generations.

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Chennai Super Kings maintain top four spot in IPL 2024 standings despite loss to Gujarat Titans. Punjab Kings drop in rankings after defeat to Royal Challengers Bangalore. Sunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals still in contention for playoffs. Top four teams will advance, with the final on May 26. Kolkata Knight Riders to face Mumbai Indians next.

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E-passes mandatory to visit Ooty, Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu from May 7 to June 30, 2024

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL NEWS , TAMIL NADU / Updated : May 6, 2024, 12:58 IST

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Madras High Court mandates e-passes for Ooty and Kodaikanal, aiming to regulate tourism and alleviate traffic congestion. The exemption for locals, overseen by Justices D Bharatha Chakravarthy and N Sathish Kumar, effective from M … Read more

Madras High Court mandates e-passes for Ooty and Kodaikanal, aiming to regulate tourism and alleviate traffic congestion. The exemption for locals, overseen by Justices D Bharatha Chakravarthy and N Sathish Kumar, effective from May 7 to June 30, 2024. Read less

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Madras High Court mandates e-passes for Ooty and Kodaikanal, aiming to regulate tourism and alleviate traffic congestion. The exemption for locals, overseen by Justices D Bharatha Chakravarthy and N S...