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Photo itinerary: two weeks in Iran

 I’m often asked for suggestions about Iran itineraries, so without further ado: here’s my suggested two week Iran travel itinerary. Includes tips on what to see, where to stay, how to get off the beaten track, and an interactive map. Updated in 2019 with new recommendations. 

Lost with Purpose is blocked in Iran (clearly the government loves me!). To access Lost With Purpose in Iran—and other blocked websites—you need to use a VPN. I use and recommend ExpressVPN . Read more about accessing internet in Iran freely with a VPN here .

From glorious Islamic architecture to bustling markets, unexplored islands to skiing and rock climbing, the fabric of Iran is a diverse and intricate tapestry. But all this splendor makes it difficult to decide where to go. So much to see, so little time!

Below you can find a two-week itinerary for Iran. It includes several major highlights of Iran but also gives you alternatives if you wish to mix it up. If you have more time and want to explore a different side of Iran, you can check out this off-the-beaten-track guide for Iran with more itinerary suggestions.

A note on prices:  Due to high levels of inflation, prices in Iran change all the time. The same goes for the exchange rate. However, because the exchange rate often changes in line with inflation, dollar and euro prices will mostly stay the same. I try to keep prices as up-to-date as possible, so please let us know if anything has changed.

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Lost With Purpose’s two-week Iran travel itinerary

Iran in two weeks

Days 1-3: tehran, days 5-6: kashan, days 7-9: esfahan, days 10-11: yazd.

• Days 12-14: Shiraz

Alternative destinations

• Alamut Valley
• Kerman and the Kaluts
• Hormuz Island

A quick note on money in Iran

Due to international sanctions, Iran is a cash-only economy for foreigners, even though almost all stores accept local debit and credit cards.

This means you’ll have to walk around with large wads of rials. If you don’t feel comfortable about this, check out Mah Card. Mah Card is a prepaid debit card specifically designed for travelers in Iran. Use the promo code LOSTWITHPURPOSE to get a 40% discount on Mah Card.

Getting serious about fresh juice in Tehran

Tehran, the capital of Iran, is not the easiest of introductions. It’s busy, congested, polluted, and vast. Plenty of people will tell you to not waste your time, and beeline straight to more noteworthy places.

I disagree. Tehran has plenty to offer if you let it.

Tehran’s Grand Bazaar, for instance. The largest in the country, it is estimated that ⅓ of all goods sold in Iran flow through its narrow lanes at one time or another. It’s a sensory overload and can get super crowded in the middle of the day, but it’s a bazaar not to be missed. You can easily spend the better part of a day in and around the bazaar, and we recommend you do just that!

Once the bazaar becomes too much of a hassle, you can retreat to the relative calm of Tehran’s numerous parks. Let the greenery relax your mind for a bit before you’re inevitably barraged with requests for selfies!

Traders at the stock market on the second floor of Tehran’s bazaar

Top things to see in Tehran

• Grand Bazaar: Tehran’s most bustling bazaar. Head here early if you want a bit of relative peace and quiet. If dodging men with carts is more your style, brave the crowds of the afternoon. Don’t count on finding food here once evening sets in.
• Golestan Palace: Tehran’s most famous attraction… and the most costly at $20 (likely more by now) to enter. A UNESCO world heritage site, it’s a former palace dating back to the Qajar era  featuring several bedazzled halls and rooms.
• Borj-e Milad (Milad Tower): A towering outlook over Tehran’s city, and a good place to watch the sunset. Make sure the day is clear before paying to head up the tower!
• Borj-e Azadi (Azadi Tower): Tehran’s iconic archway, popular with locals and foreigners alike.
• Imam Khomeini Shrine: Mentioned it in my off the beaten track itinerary , this under-appreciated shrine is a great spot for a day trip. Budget travelers, don’t miss it — entrance is free!
• Park-e Jamshidieh: A chill park in the foothills of northern Tehran. Bring picnic materials, or just sit and wait for some friendly Iranians to approach you for some conversation!
• Darband:  A chill riverside area where you can escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy some riverside kebabs and hookah.

Park-e Shahr in central Tehran. Who says Tehran is all concrete and fumes?

Where to stay in Tehran

As you could expect from the capital, Tehran has plenty of hotels. Because the city is so big, I am reluctant to give recommendations. Instead, you can check out 1stQuest to find the perfect accommodation in Tehran .  Don’t forget to use the code LWP-QST for a 5% discount when using 1stQuest.

Traffic on Tehran’s streets can get a little hectic…

Transportation times from Tehran

• Bus to Qom: 1.5 hours
• Train to Qom: 2 hours
• Bus to Kashan: 3 hours
• Train to Kashan: 4 hours

Finding the right bus in Tehran can be a real nightmare, as bus stations are crowded and chaotic. Save yourself some stress and book buses online with 1stQuest – use code LWP-QST for a 5% discount.

The Hazrat-e Masumeh Shrine in Qom by Fulvio Spada

The second holiest city in Iran, and an important city in the run-up to the revolution, Qom is a logical stopover on your way to Kashan or Esfahan, or as a day trip from Tehran. It’s a very pious city, due to its large theological institutes, and houses the magnificent shrine to the sister of Imam Reza.

If you don’t have the time to make it to holy Mashhad in the north, Qom is a good alternative as far as holy cities go.

Tip: While in Qom, be sure to dress extra conservatively—dark or somber clothes are best.

Men praying at the Hazrat-e Masumeh shrine by Franxx

Top things to see in Qom:

• Hazrat-e Masumeh/Fatimah Masumeh Shrine:  Shrine to the sister of Imam Reza, Fatimah, and the second most holy place in Iran.
• Jameh Mosque:  Another grand Friday mosque.
• Qom Bazaar:  Historical covered bazaar, much less crowded than Tehran’s.

The Jamkaran Mosque by Fabien Dany

Where to stay in Qom

I recommend going to Qom as a day trip from Tehran. There’s no real reason to stay the night.

Men and women in conservative clothes by Ralf Schumacher

Transportation from Qom

• To Tehran by bus:  1.5 hours
• Bus to Kashan: 2 hours
• To Esfahan by bus: 5.5 hours

The Agha Bozorg mosque

Many people consider Kashan one of the highlights of Iran, but I have to admit: I was disappointed by Kashan. Supposedly “hidden” from mass tourism, it actually overflows with tour groups. Sightseeing opportunities are numerous, but ticket costs quickly add up.

On the other hand, Kashan is en-route to other major destinations and a logical stopover going south. Its Old City is filled with the winding alleys and gorgeous old buildings, so if this is what you’re looking for, add Kashan to your Iran itinerary. Everyone’s experience is different, after all. 

Looking down on peons below from the Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse

Top things to see in Kashan

• Fin Gardens:  One of several UNESCO-listed Persian gardens.
• Traditional houses: See how the wealthy merchants of Kashan lived in the numerous traditional houses. They’re $3 a piece to enter. You can buy a ticket for several houses + bathhouse at the ticket office of the Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse.
• Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse: Ornate vaulted ceilings decorate the inside. On the flip side is an alien dome-covered rooftop.

Not too shabby: the view from the roof of Noghli Guesthouse

Where to stay in Kashan

Kashan’s budget options are limited, as most accommodations are in beautifully restored heritage homes. Some of these have dorms for $10 – 15 a bed. But with an increase in tourism, cheaper options are sure to pop up. Check out 1StQuest if the options below are not to your liking ( use code LWP-QST for a 5% discount).

• Budget/mid-range:  Amir Kabir Hotel 
• Mid-range: Kan-e Ehs an

The mountainous skyline of Kashan

Transportation from Kashan

Kashan is a great stop on your Iran itinerary if you’re going south from Tehran, as it’s right between Tehran and Esfahan. There are regular buses and several trains.

• Bus to Esfahan: 3 hours
• Train to Tehran: 4 hours

The 33 arches of Si-o-seh pol in Esfahan

Esfahan is one of the highlights of Iran. With its glorious mosques, grand bazaar, tasty food, and lovely people, it has something on offer for anyone.

Imam square, surrounded by Esfahan’s bazaar and perhaps the most exquisite mosques in the country, can easily take up a day or two. Esfahan is a place not to be rushed, so make sure to slow down, sit on the grass and treat yourself to a saffron ice cream or three.

Tip: When in Esfahan, don’t forget to try  beryani , the local specialty made of minced mutton, herbs, and fresh bread.  Azam Beryani specializes in the dish. They have several locations, but we enjoyed the spot near the Jame Mosque the best. Don’t worry when you see the line—everyone in line is often too happy to let foreigners skip a few places.

Esfahan’s mosques are certainly its highlight, but the city offers so much more. It has several historic bridges, of which at least Si-o-seh pol is worth a visit. 

Talk about ceilings! The ceiling of the Sheikh Lotfallah mosque in Imam Square.

Top things to see in Esfahan:

• Imam Square:  Don’t forget to sit down in the grass and enjoy some saffron ice cream.
• Shah Mosque:  This mosque has perhaps one of the most intricate archways in Iran. A must visit.
• Sheikh Lotfallah Mosque:  One of my favorite mosques in Iran. Staring at the ceiling never gets old.
• Historical bridges on the Zāyanderūd  river, notably Si-o-seh Pol:  Make sure to visit in the evening when the bridges are atmospherically lit up, and Iranians flock to enjoy the evening cool.
• Vank Cathedral:  This Armenian cathedral has beautifully ornate frescoes, and rivals anything you’ll see in Armenia itself.

Entrance to the epic Shah Mosque

Where to stay in Esfahan

Esfahan has plenty of options. From big luxury hotels to small homestay-like hostels. Prices are what you would expect from one of Iran’s most popular cities. We recommend booking ahead in the high season using 1stQuest ( use code LWP-QST for a 5% discount ).

• Budget: Amir Kabir Hostel
• Mid-range: Dibai House
• Top end:  Piroozy Hotel

Saffron ice cream, the greatest culinary invention ever.

Transportation from Esfahan

You can go almost anywhere in Iran from Esfahan. Below you can find some travel information on the most popular routes for this Iran itinerary.

• Bus to Yazd: 7-8 hours – I recommend an overnight VIP bus to save on time and accommodation
• Train to Yazd: 3 hours
• Bus to Tehran: 5 hours
• Train to Tehran: 7.5 hours
• Flight to Tehran: 1 hour
• Bus to Shiraz:  6 – 7 hours

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Hazire mosque is near the central Jame Mosque.

Yazd is an exquisitely well preserved and restored town. It’s a quintessential Persian oasis town, with lovely people and ample photo ops. You can easily spend a day or two getting lost in its desert tinted alleys, or admiring the views while relaxing on one of its numerous rooftop cafes.

Yazd is a great place to stick around in, and if you have time we recommend staying a bit longer to visit some of the sights around Yazd. If not, two days is enough to visit the main sights and get a little bit lost.

Amir Chakhmagh lit up at night

Top things to see in Yazd:

• Jameh Mosque: Beautiful Friday Mosque in the center of Yazd. Has a grand entrance hall. PRO TIP : visit in the evening, or take the back door, to save on the entry fee.
• Amir Chakhmagh:  Don’t waste your money on the entrance fee, you can have the same view from the guesthouse rooftop next door.
• Old town alleyways: One of the joys of Yazd is wandering its backstreets. With a bit of imagination, you’ll soon be transported back to the 17th century.

Off the beaten track tip:  Don’t miss the haunting pigeon tower or sprawling Narin castle in nearby Meybod !

Enjoying the sick rooftop views from the budget-friendly Amir Chakhmagh hostel

Places to stay in Yazd

Yazd has plenty of accommodation. Most of the more upscale places are located around the side streets near the Jame Mosque and Bazaar. I only found one budget place 2016, which can be found next to Amir Chakhmagh, but as of 2019, several other places have opened.

• Budget:  Yazd Friendly Hotel 
• Mid-range:  Khane Dohad
• Luxury:  Parsian Safaiyeh Hotel

The traditional windcatchers of Yazd used to cool houses down below

Transportation from Yazd

• Bus to Shiraz:  6 hours – Consider overnighting it.
• Bus to Tehran: 9 – 10 hours
• Plane to Tehran: 1 hour

The famous Nasir al Mulk mosque in Shiraz

Days 12 – 14: Shiraz

Shirazis (people from Shiraz) have a reputation as being the warmest people in Iran, and it’s easy to see why! The city’s history is decorated by poetry, music, and wine, and its old interior is filled to the brim with yet more stunning architecture. Though the hard-line government has deprived the city of its Bacchanalian aspects, Shiraz is still a warm and welcoming place for everyone, and sure to impress.

From Shiraz, you can fly or take a bus back to Tehran. If you have some time left, check out our list of alternative destinations below, or leave the tourist trail with our off the beaten track guide .

The tombs of the Necropolis

Top things to see in Shiraz:

• Nasir al Mulk Mosque: perhaps the most photographed mosque in all of Iran, and for good reason.
• Shah Cheragh shrine:  Shrine to Imam Reza’s brothers. Absolutely gorgeous. Dress appropriately and you might not need a mandatory guide.
• Tomb of Hafez: Brimming with locals, it’s the tomb of one of Iran’s most exalted poets.
• Tomb of Saadi:  Another mausoleum, this time of the great Persian poet Saadi
• Vakil Mosque:  Yet another dazzling mosque, tucked away in the city’s bazaar.
• Vakil Bazaar: Winding walkways promising to be filled with everything you never needed and more.
• Persepolis and Necropolis:  For some  the  reason to visit Iran. The lasting remains of an ancient capital are a sight to behold. An easy day trip from Shiraz.

The Shah Cheragh shrine

Where to stay in Shiraz

Shiraz lacks reasonable budget options. However, most mid-range options are sharply priced for what you get and are close to most major sights and luxury hotels sometimes offer great discounts.

• Budget/midrange:  Niayesh Boutique Hotel (offers dorm beds for $12), or check out the options on Homestay.com .
• Luxury: Shiraz Grand Hotel

Persian carpets in the Vakil Bazaar

Transportation from Shiraz

If you find yourself in Shiraz during Nowruz and have to travel back to Tehran, we recommend flying, as flights to Tehran are cheap during Nowruz.

• Plane to Tehran: 1.20 hours
• Train to Tehran: 14 – 15 hours
• Bus to Yazd: 7-8 hours –

Alternative Iran itinerary ideas

The route above covers classic Iran, and is perfect for first-time visitors, especially if you fly into Tehran. It covers genuine highlights, but it’s also a bit mainstream.

The following are some of my favorite places in Iran that are worth a visit, which is guaranteed to be less laden with tour groups. If you have only two weeks, you can fit in one of these destinations by cutting out Qom and/or Kashan .

If you have a bit more time, you can easily tack several of these on to your Iran itinerary. And if you need more inspiration to create a four-week itinerary for Iran, check out our off-the-beaten-track guide to Iran .

The Grand Bazaar of Tabriz, the first-ever UNESCO-listed bazaar

Tabriz (2-3 days)

Probably my favorite big city in Iran. Tabrizis are extremely friendly , there’s plenty of interesting sights to be seen, and its UNESCO-listed bazaar is a shopper’s Valhalla. The city’s popularity is sure to pick up due to its close proximity to the Armenian border crossing , but for now, it’s blissfully devoid of mass tourism.

How to fit Tabriz into your itinerary:  If coming over the border from Armenia or Turkey, make Tabriz your first stop. If starting from Tehran , fly or take an overnight bus from there.

Sunset views over Tabriz from one of the many hills surrounding the city

Top things to see in Tabriz

• Bazaar of Tabriz: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the bazaar of Tabriz is phenomenal. It is one of the oldest bazaars in the region, and one of the largest covered bazaars in the world.
• The Blue Mosque:  Dilapidated but still beautiful, this mosque was badly damaged by an earthquake in 1780. Restoration efforts are in place, but work is progressing slowly.
• Shah Gölü park:  A large artificial lake surrounded by snack stalls, small eateries, and carnival rides. It’s a popular hangout spot for locals, especially in the evenings!
• Kandovan:  Reminiscent of Cappadocia in Turkey, Kandovan is an easy day trip from Tabriz , and a must-visit if you’re in the region.

The cave city of Kandovan

Where to stay in Tabriz

Being a big city, Tabriz has a wide array of accommodation available.

• Budget:  There are lots of budget hotels around the Darya Hotel . The Darya used to be cheaper, but being featured in the Lonely Planet has inevitably raised the prices to around $25 for a double.
• Mid-range:  Tabriz Hotel
• Luxury:   Kaya Laleh Park Hotel

A hole in the wall cafe serving delicious bread, cream and honey for breakfast in the bazaar

Transportation from Tabriz

Tabriz is a bit out of the way, but well worth the effort getting there.

• Train to Tehran: 12 – 13 hours
• Bus to Tehran: 8 – 9 hours

Atop one of the Castles of the Assassins in the Alamut Valley

The Alamut Valley (2 days)

Home to the famous Alamut Castle of the Assassins , the otherworldly rock formations and fascinating history of the Alamut Valley is hard to forget. Best accessed from Qazvin, the Alamut valley offers anything from a day trip to multi-day hiking opportunities.

How to fit the Alamut Valley into your itinerary:  If coming over the border from Armenia or Turkey, you can stop here after Tabriz. Otherwise, head here from Tehran via bus or taxi.

Delicious zereshk polow (chicken and rice with barberries) in a home at the base of the Alamut Castle

Top things to see in the Alamut Valley

• Alamut Castle:  The ex-fortress of Hassan-e Sabbh. The fortress is no more, though it’s being restored, the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking.
• Three canyons: I couldn’t tell you their names, but there are several canyons running alongside one of the roads into the valley. They feature surreal, bulbous rock formations known as “pudding rocks”. Can’t go wrong with a name like that!
• Garmarud:  A small village in the mountains, and the starting point of many treks through the Alamut Valley.

Where to stay in the Alamut Valley

You have two options if not hiking and camping—Qazvin, the nearest city, and Gazor Khan, a village at the base of the Alamut Castle mountain 2.5 hours from Qazvin.

• Budget: Telighani Inn, Qazvin
• Mid-range: Golestan Hotel in Gazor Khan
• Luxury: Traditional Behrouzi Hotel , Qazvin

Transportation times from Qazvin

• Train to Tehran: 2 hours
• Bus to Tehran: 3 – 4 hours
• Bus to Rasht: 3 hours

The Shrine of Imam Reza by Costas Tavernarakis

Mashhad (2 days)

Mashhad is Iran’s holiest city, and it shows. The glittering minarets of the Shrine to Imam Reza rise above the city’s skyline, the streets are filled with pilgrims, and black is the color of choice for almost all women on the street. There’s not much to see in Mashhad aside from the shrine, but it’s worth it. It’s not every day you can see the resting place of one of the 12 imams, some of the holiest people in Shia Islam.

How to fit Mashhad into your itinerary: Mashhad is far away from literally everything in Iran. If you’re pressed for time, you need to fly there. If you have a bit more wiggle room, you can take an overnight train or bus from Tehran to Mashhad and back.

Photo by Costas Tavernarakis

Top things to see in Mashhad

• Shrine to Imam Reza:  A sprawling, ornate masterpiece that needs to be seen to be believed. Girls will need to wear a chador, and no cameras are allowed inside.
• Kang: A stepped village near Mashhad. Perfect for a day trip.
• Torbat-e Jam:  Another small village with a beautiful mosque and mausoleum near the border of Afghanistan. Here’s how to get from Mashhad to Torbat-e Jam .

A lively tomb in Torbat-e Jam

Where to stay in Mashhad

• Budget:  Vali’s Homestay
• Mid-range:  Javad Hotel
• Luxury: Madinah Alireza Hotel

Transportation from Mashhad

• Train to Tehran: 10 – 11 hours
• Bus to Tehran: 10 – 11 hours

A still sunrise over the Kaluts desert

Kerman and the Kaluts (2 days)

Southern Kerman is quite a hike from anything else in Iran, but the Kaluts desert (also known as the Dasht-e Lut desert) makes the trip worth your while. The overwhelmingly stark silence of the desert is enough to calm even the most restless of minds, and the surreal “sandcastles” will transport you to another world entirely.

How to fit Kerman into your itinerary:  You can overnight bus to Kerman from Shiraz or Yazd. Alternatively, if you have the funds you can fly to Kerman’s airport from Tehran, Esfahan, or Shiraz.

Rayen citadel makes for a nice day trip from Kerman

Top things to see in Kerman and the Kaluts

• The Kaluts desert:  Of course!
• Old caravanserai:  An abandoned caravanserai in Shahdad, a small desert town at the edge of the Kaluts.
• Vakil traditional tea house:  An old tea house in a historic bath inside Kerman’s bazaar, often offering live music.
• Rayen citadel: A restored ancient city, and a nice alternative to the destroyed Bam Citadel
• Shazdeh Garden:  A beautiful Persian garden near Kerman

The town of Shahdad near the Kaluts

Where to stay in Kerman

• Budget:  Omid Guesthouse
• Mid-range:  Hotel Akhavan  – can help arrange desert tours to the Kaluts
• Luxury:  Pars Hotel

Transportation times from Kerman

• Bus to Shiraz: 7 – 8 hours
• Bus to Yazd: 5 – 6 hours
• Plane to Tehran:  1.5 hours

The red beach on Hormuz Island

Hormuz Island (2-3 days)

Hormuz island is sometimes referred to as Rainbow Island, and it’s clear why. Its multicolored mountains and beaches will surely take your breath away.

Hormuz was relatively undiscovered until recently, but it’s becoming more popular with Iranian tourists and foreign travelers alike.

The island has a laid-back atmosphere and attracts Iranian hippy types and backpackers alike. Most people who visit Hormuz end up staying longer than they planned.

Top things to do on Hormuz Island

• Red Beach: The red sand of the surrounding mountains gives the water at this beach an almost eerily red glow. One of the most popular destinations on the island.
• Hole in the rock:  This hole in the rock makes for a great photo prop, and you can see many Iranians angling for just the right selfie.
• Rainbow Valley:  Multicolored valley with a gorgeous view. Popular with Iranian buskers.
• Salt cave:  A stunning salt cave surrounded by red mountains.

All of the above and more can be visited in a day hiring a motorbike or rickshaw ($1.80 an hour). But I recommend taking your time and leisurely exploring the island.

A view from the Rainbow Valley. Can you spot all the different colors?

Where to stay on Hormuz Island

Hormuz is small and has only one town. There used to be almost no accommodation, but with its increased popularity several places have now popped up.

• Budget:  Camping – there are plenty of beaches to pitch your tent, and it’s possible to buy gas canisters on the island.
• Budget: Saboora Hostel is a simple yet atmospheric hostel charging $7 per night.
• Mid-range:  Sahel Rorkh is a regular 3-star hotel in Hormuz town.

Transportation to Hormuz

There are several ferries a day from/to Bandar Abbas, and two ferries from/two Qeshm. You can check the ferry schedule here . Both ferries take roughly one hour.

Resources for travel in Iran

• 1stQuest – here you can book accommodation, buses, and flights for Iran using international payment methods. Use code LWP-QST for a 5% discount.
• Lonely Planet: Iran – Because let’s face it, having a physical book is always best.
• World Nomads Travel Insurance – The travel insurance we used while in Iran. Highly recommended!
• Everything you need to know about taxis in Iran – A very thorough guide to not getting ripped off by taxi drivers in Iran.
• Things to know before traveling Iran – Everything we think you should know before heading to Iran
• How to access blocked sites in Iran – Don’t forget that the Iranian government censors the internet! Here’s how to get around their block.
• Couchsurfing – Extremely popular in Iran (despite being illegal) and the best way to meet locals  and  save on accommodation
• Iran rail – The unofficial page of the Iranian railways is super useful for train, bus, and ferry schedules.

And that concludes my two-week Iran itinerary. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions.

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Yay transparency! Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you buy or book something with our links, we’ll get a small commission  at no extra cost to you . Think of it as a way of saying thanks for making the itinerary 🙂

Alex Reynolds

60 thoughts on “ photo itinerary: two weeks in iran ”.

Iran, is very good, is very nice

I’m visiting soon Iran, I found this article very useful, because I will be new up there. I’m very much interested to see mosques and historical places and land capes in Iran.

Looking for private or tour company for 14 day tour in Iran from 15 Oct for 2 persons. (One couple). English speaking. Please recommend with iternery and price. Thank you

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Travel to Iran: 30 Tips for Traveling to Iran

Unlike what you can see in the media, Iran is one of the friendliest countries I’ve ever visited. I think everyone should travel to Iran to experience incredible hospitality, see vibrant cities, discover mystic deserts and eat delicious food. Why?

Did you know that Iran hosts nineteen UNESCO World Heritage Sites ? There’s so much to see that even if you spend a month traveling around the country, you won’t see everything that the country has to offer. Iran has it all. If you plan to travel to Iran, here are my best tips.

I traveled to Iran independently, on my own and without a tour group. While I was able to travel around the country on my own due to my EU passport, even if you’re from the UK or US and require to do an organized tour you could hire a guide and create your own itinerary. So not all is lost! 🙂

Many blogs are blocked in Iran, so if your VPN isn’t working for some reason you won’t be able to access some sources again. Fortunately, my website isn’t blocked, so you can re-read my articles when you’re already in Iran as well.

Traveling to Iran: Things to Know Before You Go

1. iranians aren’t arabs.

One of the most important things to remember is that Iranians aren’t Arabs, they’re Persian. They speak Farsi (and other dialects), not Arabic, and some people might feel offended if you great them with Arabic words.

Since the Arab invasion of Iran, Farsi has been written in Arabic letters with slight differences. While a lot of Arabic words have made it to the Persian dictionary, it doesn’t mean that an Arab can understand Farsi or the other way around.

2. What’s The Best Time to Travel to Iran?

Iran is a big country, so temperatures differ. For instance, when I was visiting Iran in late March it was freezing cold in Tabriz and Tehran, but very warm in Esfahan.

During the summer, temperatures frequently break into the 40’s (C), so it might not be the best time to visit. Especially since you need to be covered up head to toes.

I’d say that the best time to visit Iran is spring (late February – late May).

The worst time to travel is the 2-week long Iranian New Year holidays called Navroz (for 2018: 21st March – 4th April) . I was actually in Iran during these holidays and it was, in fact, the worst time to visit. You won’t be able to stay with many locals as everyone is visiting families and many places are closed.

3. Iranian Don’t Hate Americans

One of the biggest myths in Western Media is that Iranians hate Americans. I only encountered one posted at a mosque in Tehran. But after a few conversations with people around the mosque, I quickly realized that they all agreed that some group of weirdos put it there and no one really thinks that.

I had endless conversations about it with many locals and none of them expressed any hate towards Americans. In fact, American movies were shown on a local bus and people love to drink Coca-Cola.

4. Iran Is a Great Place for Backpacking

Many people don’t consider a country like Iran to be good for backpacking. But they’re wrong. Iran is the ultimate backpacking destination. Iran is cheap, it has hostels in major tourist places, cheap hotels and guesthouses in others, comfortable buses, and friendly locals. What more can you want when you backpack…?

I’m usually not a fan of backpacking and hostels. But backpacking in Iran is different than in some other popular places. Travelers were more mature, interested in different cultures, and not just in partying and taking usual selfies in the morning. I might be biased, but when I backpacked in other places I was rarely able to find people who wanted to join me for a trip to the museum. Not in Iran.

5. How Much Money Do I Need to Travel to Iran?

Iran is a country that offers great value for money, even more so these days. But money is one thing you really need to plan on if you’re going to Iran, as foreign card won’t work in any ATM and you cannot pay by card. Similar to Cuba , Iran is a cash country.

Bring EUROS, not US Dollars. Many websites and travel blogs will tell you to bring only Dollars. Thankfully, I had Euros too. Dollars were very unwanted (I imagine after Trump’s travel ban ). While some people still accepted them, it wasn’t easy.

I spent approximately $20-40 per day while traveling solo and with a friend, I met on my first day. It wasn’t an extreme budget trip and we weren’t restricting ourselves. I recommend planning on bringing more, just to be safe. This will allow you to book a double room in a budget hotel, local meals, taxis and taking buses everywhere.

Remember that Iran has beautiful Persian carpets and you might want to buy one. My friend and I both bought carpets, so I was happy that I had some spare cash with me. Prices for a rug range between $100-800 depending on the size.

Click Here for official / street exchange rate history.

NOTE: Iran recently introduced a special pre-paid debit cards for foreign travelers called Mah Card . It’s a great solution for those who don’t want to carry too much cash around. You can sign up online and they’ll meet you at your hotel upon arrival, issue your card and deposit your foreign currency into your Mah Card.

6. Currency in Iran is Very Confusing

Rial is the official currency, but all prices are in Toman.  It gets a bit confusing and you’ll most likely get a real hang of it right before you leave.

1 toman = 10 rials

But it’s not just that simple. If someone asks you for 20 it means you need to pay 200 rials, but I also encountered 20 meaning 20,000 as they just don’t want to deal with zeros.

7. You Can Get Iran Visa at the Airport OR Beforehand

If you’re worried about the hassle of getting a visa to Iran, fear not! Citizens of many countries are eligible for a visa on arrival for up to 30 days. See rules and documents required in my other post .

If you’re illegible to travel around Iran on your own, you can consider taking the Discover Persia 14-day G Adventures tour , which I’ve heard good things about. The tour doesn’t chaperone you 24/7 and you’ll have some free time, so even if you’re not a group trip person, you’ll be fine. Check here for the latest  Discover Persia tour prices and itinerary .

Another option would be Iran tours from Intrepid. They have a few options available, so check the latest dates and prices here .

If you’re a US citizen or resident I suggest contacting 1st Quest to obtain a visa. They’re the best and quickest when it comes to arranging visas online, not only to Iran.

Travel Insurance for Iran:

You won’t be granted a visa without valid travel insurance. And in case you’re wondering EU insurance cards won’t work, as they do check whether your policy is actually valid for Iran. While you can technically buy insurance at the airport, you’ll have to stand in another line to do so. This is why I recommend 1st Quest . It’s valid for Iran and it’s reliable.

8. Iran is Safe to Travel

Apart from what media portrays Iran is safe. I actually felt safer in Iran than during my last visit to NYC. Also, once you meet some friendly Iranian (within 10 minutes of your walk outside of the hotel), they’ll make sure that you as a foreigner have everything you need.

I never encountered people being so helpful anywhere else in the world.

Random strangers will get off the metro with you at the wrong station for them to show you the right way. They’ll escort you to your seat on the bus to make sure that you find everything right and don’t miss it. They’ll guard your stuff too.

I only felt unsafe once, in Esfahan at night, but nothing happened.

9. Crossing the Road is Probably the Most Dangerous in Iran

Crossing the road in Iran is terrifying. Seriously, I’d never want to drive in Iran as traffic rules seem to be some sort of general guidelines. If you want to cross the street, whether it’s a crosswalk or elsewhere, you need to just start walking and pray that the cars will stop.

If you’re going to wait till cars stop you might as well be waiting until next year, as they’ll never stop before you’re actually halfway through. Your best bet is to maintain eye contact and look like you know what you’re doing.

10. Be Prepared for Some Crazy Drivers

You might get a heart attack in a taxi, as Iranian drivers are crazy. So don’t even attempt to drive yourself, even if your new friends offer. I mean, just take a look at this photo below proving that it’s totally fine to stop in the middle of a roundabout to have a chat…

11. Hotels Will Keep Your Passports Until You Check Out

Hotel receptions will keep your passport and give it back to you   upon check out. Some people might be afraid of that, but they really keep it safe. Make sure you always have a copy of your passport though!

12. There’s No Good Guidebook for Iran

I’m usually not a fan of traveling with a guidebook. I did it once with Rick Steves’ guide to Slovenia and Croatia and every place mentioned was either overcrowded or overrun by tourists. But I understand that some people prefer to have a guidebook and for a country like Iran, it might come in handy.

While Lonely Planet’s Guide to Iran is still a bestseller, it’s also very outdated. The  newest edition came out in September 2017 . Many restaurants and guesthouses mentioned there closed down and I found that often travel times and bus schedules are wrong. BUT and I thickened and underlined ‘but’ on purpose, the guide is still all right and helpful when traveling to Iran.

I still recommend getting a copy, but taking into consideration that some things might not be up to date and double-check.

13. Women Must Wear a Headscarf

Iran is officially the Islamic Republic and both women and men must follow the dress code rules (yes, it’s not just for women). Men shouldn’t wear shorts, and women need to cover up their hair with a headscarf and their body.

I was quite worried about having my entire scalp covered at first, but I quickly realized how ‘relaxed’ the rules are. Many young women just cover only the top of their hair.

Iranian women are super stylish, so if you’re wearing baggy elephant pants you’ll feel out of place – believe me! Also, bring a short skirt or dress as well, as in private homes women quickly change into tight shirts and skirts. You’ll look ridiculous in your conservative clothes inside and everyone will ask you why don’t you change.

14. You Need a VPN to Browse the Internet Freely

While there’s the internet in Iran, similar to China, you’ll need a VPN in order to see certain websites. You’ll need to install a VPN (a virtual private network) in order to access a certain website. Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube are blocked in Iran. Travel blogs who wrote about Israel are also blocked in Iran.

What’s not blocked? You’ll be able to access your Gmail account without any issues. The most popular social network in Iran is Instagram which isn’t blocked. I find it slightly ironic, knowing that Instagram is owned by Facebook that’s blocked in Iran.

Make sure to do your research and check out my other post, as not all VPNs will work in Iran.

15. Get an Iranian SIM Card

Iranian SIM is cheap and you might find yourself in sudden need of Google Maps, so I highly recommend it. You can ask at your hotel/hostel where is the nearest Irantel. The basic SIM costs 10 Euros and includes 2 GB of internet.

You might also download the Telegram app if you want to make staying in touch with your new Iranian friends as smooth as possible. Iranian use this app to communicate, instead of texting, as it’s encrypted.

16. Toilets are Everywhere, but…

First things first, don’t ask for a toilet. Ask for a WC, as that’s the word used by Iranian.

Prepare yourself for squat toilets. Even many hotels don’t have western toilets and you can forget about them even in fancy restaurants. Don’t forget to bring a roll of toilet paper with you. It’s rarely provided outside private homes, and even in less expensive hotels, I was lacking a roll in my bathroom quite often.

17. Stay with Iranians if you can

Without a doubt, the most enjoyable part of backpacking Iran is having the opportunity to stay with locals. While Couchsurfing is technically illegal is widely used, so even if you’re not a couchsurfer you might give it a go. YES – it’s safe to interact and stay with locals in Iran. Everyone is extremely hospitable and they’ll invite you to stay multiple nights.

My friend and I were stopped on the street by locals on many occasions who were offering us to stay with them, wanted to buy us lunch, inviting us to birthday parties and weddings. While it obviously doesn’t happen in the Western world and might seem strange at first, it’s Iranian culture. Just say yes. You’ll see a completely different Iran – trust me.

Note that Americans, British, and Canadians citizens are forbidden from entering local homes, leave alone staying with them.

18. Don’t be Afraid of Asking Iranians Some Personal Questions

If you’re curious about something, don’t be afraid to ask Iranians about it. My friend and I met a group of girls in Kurdistan with whom we had some deep conversations about cultural differences, their lives, and our lives. It was really eye-opening and I’ve learned a lot.

19. If You’re Vegetarian, I Hope you Like Eggplants and Lentils

While my opinion can be totally bias and connected to the fact that I visited Iran during national holidays, I was having issues finding some vegetarian dishes in Iran. Leave alone if you’re vegan. Outside of the popular tourist route, vegetarian options were out of questions and even a milk cinnamon soup contains meat.

But if you’re sticking to the tourist route (Tehran – Kashan – Esfahan – Yazd – Shiraz) you’ll be able to find restaurants offering eggplant ragout, or eggplant mousse. I also saw lentils on the menu quite often, but double-check with the waiter if they contain meat as some portions might.

Overall, I wasn’t impressed with Iranian food at all apart from a few dishes. I blame it on bad timing of Navroz holidays and the fact that I’m not a big meat eater and all salads and yogurts were served with cucumbers that I’m allergic to, so I couldn’t eat them either.

But you might change your might if you attend some home-cooked meals or food tours. I found out about Persian Food Tours from locals, but unfortunately, I already left Tehran when I did. Let me know how is it if you decide to do it!

20. Forget About Alcohol in Iran

If you’re into traveling and getting drunk on the way, Iran might not be a place for you. There is no bars and alcohol can’t be found normally, unless you really know how to look for it (not recommended). If caught drinking alcohol, you could be looking at some jail time or a fine. But don’t worry – water bottles look like flasks of vodka.

Having no alcohol doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to party and have fun. I’ve attended a birthday party and it was great to see how Iranians can entertain themselves without a drop of alcohol. We danced, we talked – it was fun!

You’ll actually often see a beer on the menu, but it means nonalcoholic. It also has different flavors, so you might as well try it.

21. Restrain Yourself from Public Affection as a Couple

As in any other conservative country, PDA is not well seen. While it’s technically not illegal, you shouldn’t be holding hands with your loved one, or kissing in public places.

22. Everyone Will Approach You and Talk to You

While having random strangers approach you isn’t common practice in other countries, it is in Iran. People often strike up random conversations with foreigners to practice their English.

23. Take Your Shoes Off Everywhere in Iran

No matter if you’re staying at a fancy hotel, guesthouse, hostel or someone’s home, take off your shoes. No one wears shoes inside. At restaurants with traditional seating, you’re required to take your shoes off before jumping on a seat.

24. Shop at Iranian Markets

Bazaars play a huge part in Iran’s day-to-day life and you can find them pretty much in every city and small town. The largest bazaar in the world (UNESCO World Heritage Site) is in Tabriz, where I actually bought my carpet.

If you don’t want to shop, don’t skip the markets as they’re usually beautiful even to wander around. With high ceilings and mosaics, you can walk around for a while admiring the architecture.

25. There are Men and Women Sections in the Metro and Buses

I often compare the situation in Iran to Mexico , where you also have co-ed carriages and women-only carriages. It’s marked special on the platform with a yellow line on the floor.

But that’s just in theory, as during rush hour in Tehran I’ve seen many men entering women-only carriages with their wives and people telling us that it’s ok for our male friend to come with us. Why? I’m not sure.

26. Prepare for Selfies & Celebrity Treatment

Iranian love taking selfies and they’ll often ask you to take one with you too. I probably ended up on over 500 selfies over the course of 2 weeks, so be prepared for it even if you hate them. Iran was probably the only country where selfie sticks are the best item to sell.

As a foreigner, you’ll also be the center of everyone’s attention. In less or almost no-visited places, like Sanandaj, I encountered a woman who literally screamed with excitement ‘OMG tourists are here!’ when she saw my friend and me on the street.

27. Don’t Blow Your Nose in Public

Thankfully, it was a rule I read about before as I’d have totally humiliated myself. Don’t blow your nose in public. It’s considered gross. If you must, do it in the bathroom.

28. Don’t Believe that Buses Don’t Stop for Toilets and Food

Before going to Iran I read many articles telling me that long-distance buses don’t stop for anything unless it’s specifically requested. As someone with a small bladder, I was quite terrified.

It turned out not to be true. Every bus I was on (and I’ve really taken many) has stopped for a toilet break many times and sometimes even for an hour for dinner. Don’t worry about it, but remember that there’s no toilet on the bus!

29. Learn to Drink Tea in an Iranian Way

Forget about the way you drink your tea at home. In Iran, you need to try to drink it with locals, which means that you’ll drink some sweet tea. By that, I don’t mean you put a sugar cube in your teacup. You need to put a sugar cube in your mouth and drink the tea ‘through’ that, holding it in.

30. Iran Has the Creepiest Mannequins in the World

Chucky Doll was an angel comparing to Iranians mannequins. I could seriously create an entire collection of Children of Corn in Iran, and if you’re passing some clothing stalls for kids in the dark beware – you might have some nightmares!

SEE MY VIDEO FROM IRAN:

If you like it subscribe to my YouTube channel for weekly travel videos!

Movies About Iran:

A Separation

Under the Shadow – Something slightly different as it’s a horror taking place in Tehran during Iraq-Iran war.

Books About Iran:

A Prisoner of Tehran – A story of a woman surviving in an Iranian prison during the Iranian revolution.

Children of the Jacaranda Tree – A store about a political prisoner who gave birth inside Evin Prison in Tehran in 1983. The book traces the characters to present day, teaching you a lot about Iranian revolution.

Any questions on travel to Iran? Check out my ultimate guide to Iran  page.

READ MORE IRAN TRAVEL TIPS

I hope you enjoyed my tips for visiting Iran! Hopefully, you found it useful. Here are a few more wanderlust-inducing articles that I recommend you read next:

• Is It Safe to Travel to Iran?
• How to Get a Visa on Arrival for Iran
• What to Wear in Iran as a Woman
• Backpacking in Iran: Everything You Need to Know
• My Funny Stories from Iran

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Sunday 3rd of January 2021

thank you for your great website. im iranian and i decided to make a video about tourism in iran as my english project. your website is very useful👍

Monday 7th of September 2020

U forget to say If u ever get sick in Iran, doesn’t matter what u’re suffering from and what the hell is wrong with u , u definitely have to drink some “Chai Nabat”

Sunday 12th of July 2020

WOW! What a bunch of great information. Thanks for taking your time to share this. My boyfriend is Iranian, but I have never been in Iran, from his words it is really contrasting country, hope to visit one day.

Tuesday 7th of April 2020

Very great and comprehensive post. You already answered many questions we face as a travel agency in Iran. Great Job! I just can add about squatting in the Iranian toilet, that don't forgot to check your pockets before squatting to avoid falling all your properties down :))

Wednesday 16th of October 2019

Hi Anna, So grateful to have bumped into your article.

Travel Guide to Iran – My 8 Day Cultural Itinerary Visiting Cities of Mashhad, Shiraz, Yazd, Ishfahan and Tehran

Iran is probably one of the most underrated tourist destinations in the world, thanks to the impact of mainstream media. As they report conflict and hatred, viewers establish fear and indifference to the country. Not a lot of people care about the true status of Iranians let alone set foot on their soil. 

This is one of the compelling reasons why I wanted to see this country for myself. I want to get to know their people, their culture, and see how beautiful their country is. I want to experience more than what I see and hear on the news or on television, this is aside from the fact that I wanted to visit every single country in the world.

A lot of people think I’m crazy or stupid for traveling around Central Asia, Iran in particular. Well, let me tell you that I probably am! I have crossed the border from Djibouti to Somaliland , sailed from the Florida Keys to the Bahamas , traveled to 15 countries around Africa , and I even went Mountain Gorilla Tracking in Uganda so there’s no way I wouldn’t visit Iran! :p 

EXTRA TIPS: I recommend booking your Iran travel services through Exotigo , a trusted Iranian online travel agency. Through their web platform, you can find a large variety of Iran hotels, domestic flights, tour packages and experiences, car rental as well as Iran visa and insurance. They accept all major debit/credit cards and PayPal as well.

This time, Visit Our Iran planned and arranged this trip, as well as my visas and flights and Marcopolo Iran Touring,   hosted  me and Bohemian Vagabond Travel Blog: Jacki Ueng for 8 full days! Here is a very interesting cultural itinerary that they prepared for us! 🙂

Table of Contents

DAY 1: CROSSING THE BORDER FROM ASHGABAT, TURKMENISTAN TO BAJGIRAN, IRAN AND MY OVERNIGHT STAY IN HOMA HOTEL IN MASHHAD

From Ashgabat in Turkmenistan, I crossed the Bajgiran border to Iran with my Philippines Passport and pre-arranged Iranian Visa . It was relatively easy since the two Immigration Offices are close to each other.

Right before I crossed the border, the environment instantly changed (at least that’s what I felt). Other than the fact that I had to cover myself from head to ankle to follow the rules in Iran, I felt a warm welcome from the Iranian starting from the Immigration Officers who even called a taxi and assisted me with my luggage without asking for anything in return.

Marcopolo Iran Touring Co . booked a room for me at Homa Hotel in Mashhad (3-hour drive from Bajgiran) w hich happens to be one of the most popular luxury chains of hotel in Iran. It was so nice to have a little staycation from all the hardcore traveling I’m doing! :p 

After a couple of hours’ rest, I met Pouyan. He was super nice and he showed me around!

Places we visited in Mashhad:  

• Jaghargh Village just close to the city which is a hub for local restaurants
• Imam Reza Shrine which is believed to be one of the holiest places in the world.

DAY 2: TRAVEL TO SHIRAZ

Visit Our Iran arranged my flight to Shiraz (note that foreigners can’t purchase local flights because international debit and credit cards have sanctions). It is a 2-hour flight from Mashhad.

I stayed in another 5-star hotel for 2 nights (thanks to Visit Our Iran and Marcopolo Iran Touring Co so I had a really good sleep before we embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime journey. 

Note that before starting a group tour, I highly suggest you get a full-day rest! Traveling and moving around can be very exhausting so I always recommend you take a solid and power rest 🙂

DAY 3: EXPLORE SHIRAZ 

Visit Our Iran   arranged a 1,500-kilometer drive for us where we explored one of the oldest cities in Ancient Persia, which is Shiraz. This is the capital of Fars Province and is now the 5th Most Populous City in Iran. We learned so much from our Tour Guide and he took us to local restaurants where we’ve tried delicious local food!

Places we visited in Shiraz:  

• Nasir al Molk Mosque, also known as the Pink Mosque known for its extensive coloured glass on its facade and pink interiors
• Citadel of Karimkhan Zand which happens to be one of the most prominent architectural structures from the of Zand Dynasty
• Vakil Bazaar (main bazaar in Shiraz) where you can go shopping for Persian rugs, spices, handicrafts, etc. and see its beautiful courtyards and bathhouses
• Eram Garden which is a Historic Persian Garden where you can just watch the day go by
• Mausoleum of Hafiz built to honor the 14th Century Persian Poet Hafiz who was a native of Shiraz from birth until death
• Shah-e-Cheragh Holy Shrine which you may find underwhelming on the outside but the interior tells a fascinating story with its stained glass, ornamentation, inscriptions, and courtyard

DAY 4: DRIVE TO YAZD AND STOP ALONG VARIOUS UNESCO HERITAGE SITES

Yazd is the capital of Yazd Province and is recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It is a beautiful city in the middle of the desert and is the center of Zoroastrianism. This is the ancient pre-Islamic religion of Iran.

This city is home to unique Persian Architecture and this is why you shouldn’t miss this on your visit!

Places we visited in Yazd: 

• Persepolis, the capital of the Achaemenid Empire which Darius I himself founded. The earliest remains of this complex structure date as far back as 51C BC.
• Pasargadae is yet another capital of the Achaemenid Empire under Cyrus the Great, who ordered its construction. It is believed that his body lies on a limestone tomb which can be found there.
• Naqsh-e Rostam is where you’ll find colossal tombs of Persian kings and their families carved on the facade of a mountain range
• Dowlat Abad Garden which is one of the oldest gardens in the city of Yazd

DAY 5: HALF-DAY TOUR AROUND YAZD AND THEN DRIVE TO ISFAHAN

There are so many interesting things to see and do in Yazd so one full-day isn’t enough! We had another half-day tour to see more of the City and then drove to Isfahan in the afternoon.

More places we visited in Yazd: 

• Towers of Silence which was built by the Zoroastrians for dead bodies to be exposed to birds, a process called excarnation
• Fire Temple, a place of worship for the Zoroastrians
• Jami Mosque, built and rebuilt from 771 to the 20th Century due to several destructions, this is one of the oldest standing mosques in Iran 
• Amir Chakhmaq Square, one of the most outstanding buildings in Yazd, considering its importance and aesthetics

Stopovers on the way to Isfahan:

• The Historical Bridges of Si-O Se, one of the symbols of Isfahan and Khajou, described as the city’s finest bridge

DAY 6: FULL DAY TOUR AROUND ISFAHAN

Isfahan is the capital of Isfahan Province and is famous for its Perso–Islamic architecture, tree-lined boulevards, covered bridges, palaces, tiled mosques, and minarets. This is one of the tourist’s favorite stops and you’ll know exactly why with my photos :p 

Places we visited in Isfahan: 

• Naghsh-i Jahan Complex, the most famous attraction in Isfahan City with its blue-tiled mosaics. It is al where you can also find the Sheikh Lotf Allah Mosque and the Ali Qapou Palace
• Abbasi Mosque, regarded as one of the masterpieces of Persian Architecture during the Islamic era
• Qeysarie Bazaar where you can go shopping for handicrafts, copper, jewelry, carpets, etc.
• Chehel Sotun Palace, a Pavillion for entertainment and guests of Shah Abbas II, the 7th Safavid King of Iran

DAY 7: DRIVE TO TEHRAN AND HAVE STOPOVERS AT KASHAN

This time, we left early in the morning to drive to Tehran. En route, we stopped at Kashan which is another City in Isfahan Province. Archaeological conquests show that this city dates as far back to the Elamite period of Iran. 

Places we visited in Kashan: 

• Fin Garden, where you’ll find Kashan’s Fin Bath, where Amir Kabir , the Qajarid chancellor, was murdered by an assassin
• The Holy Shrine at Qom, considered to be one of the most valuable Islamic architecture in the world

DAY 8: FULL DAY TOUR AROUND TEHRAN

Tehran is the capital of Iran and Tehran Province. This is the most populous city in Iran and Western Asia so expect this day to be a little chaotic. 

Places we visited in Tehran: 

• Golestan Palace where you’ll see royal buildings, vast gardens, and collections of Iranian crafts from the 18th and 19th Century
• The Archeological Section of the National Museum where you’ll find interesting pieces of ceramics, pottery, and carvings mostly from the excavations made in Persepolis, Shush, Rey, etc.
• Tajrish Bazaar, an interesting bazaar where you’ll find a lot of local food from fresh fruits and vegetables, herbs, sweets, homemade sauces, kebab, etc.

Niavaran Palace, home of royal textile works and museum for clothes, Niavaran exclusive Palace, Ahmad Shahi Palace, Sahebgharanieh Palace, Hoz-khane museum, Jahan Nama’ Museum, garden, etc.

DAY 9: FLY BACK HOME

After 8 days of traveling around this beautiful country, immersing in their culture, indulging in their local delicacies, learning about their religion, and seeing their historical monuments, it’s now time to go home or move forward with our trips. 

Visit Our Iran   made sure we experience and see Iran’s best-kept gems! With our knowledgeable Tour Guide, we got to see the country from the eyes and perspective of a local and we learned so much from him! The Iranians are one of the most generous and sincere people I’ve met throughout my entire journey. 

If you want to visit this country stress-free, then I suggest booking your trip with Visit Our Iran . Their tours are all-inclusive, which means that you don’t have to worry about Accommodations, Transportations (except international flights), Entrance Fees for places named on the itinerary, Mid-day refreshment, and English speaking Tour Guide . Get a 10% Discount when you use our code TWOMONKEYSTRAVELVOI2019 .

Related Article: Iran Travel Guide for Filipinos  

P.S. Don’t forget to leave your driver and tour guide some tips! Enjoy your vacation! 🙂

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3 thoughts on “ Travel Guide to Iran – My 8 Day Cultural Itinerary Visiting Cities of Mashhad, Shiraz, Yazd, Ishfahan and Tehran ”

Come posso prenotare servizi di viaggio per l’Iran?

Wow, helpful information, I will travel to Iran in April, how can I book hotels in Tehran?

You can book with visitouriran directly! =) You can also get a discount! =)

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Written by Kach Umandap

Founder of Two Monkeys Travel Group. Since 2013, Kach has visited all the 7 continents (including Antarctica) and 151 countries using her Philippines Passport. In 2016, she bought a sailboat and went on sailing adventures with her two cats - Captain Ahab & Little Zissou in the Caribbean for 2 years. She now lives in Herceg Novi, Montenegro where she's enjoying her expat life and living on a gorgeous Stonehouse. She writes about her experiences traveling as a Filipina traveler with a PHL Passport. Also tips on backpacking trips, luxury hotel experiences, product reviews, sailing & adventure travel.

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Independent travel in Iran: 1 to 4-week itinerary

By Joan Torres 8 Comments Last updated on April 1, 2024

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Iran, the hottest destination of the decade, is a country filled with a very old history, mind-blowing architecture and amazing people.

The country is, however, extremely big, has been inhabited for millennia and was ruled by one of the most powerful empires that ever existed in human history.

As a consequence, Iran is, today, an extremely complex society home to an infinite number of historical sites, many of which are not open to the public yet.

And there is even more.

With some striking mountain ranges, the Persian Gulf islands, unique deserts and countless towns and cities with different kinds of people and culture, Iran is a country which you can’t finish, not in a lifetime at least.

However, whether you come here for a week or a month, getting a glimpse of the great power of the Persian empire or getting to know some locals over a cup of local chai is totally possible.

After visiting the country twice for more than months, I have compiled this 1 to 4-week itinerary for independent travel to Iran  that contains my favorite places in the country.

It took me almost two months to visit all the places I mention, spending 4 to 5 days on each one, which is a lot of days. However, if you plan well-ahead and stay 2 or 3 days in each one, you could perfectly squeeze my Iran itinerary in a month.

In this backpacking itinerary for Iran you will find:

Table of Contents

• Moving around
• Accommodation
• Day 1, 2 – Tehran

Day 3, 4 – Kashan

• Day 5, 6, 7 – Esfahan

Day 8, 9 – Yazd

• Day 10, 11, 12 – Kaluts

Day 13, 14 – Shiraz

• Day 15, 16, 17 – Mashhad
• Day 18, 19 – Gonvad e-Qavus
• Day 20, 21 – Khalid Nabi
• Qeshm Island – 3 days
• Masuleh – 3 days
• Tabriz – 3 days
• More resources

How to book hotels, flights and tours in Iran

Because of the sanctions, foreign cards or popular sites such as booking.com can’t be used in Iran, but now you can thanks to 1stQuest .

1stQuest is a local company that offers services such as visa LOI, hotel booking, tours, domestic flights, and travel insurance for Iran.

5% discount on ALL bookings with voucher code:

How to travel independently around Iran (Transportation)

Iran is an extremely easy country to move around, as it has a very well-connected bus network and plenty of domestic flights.

Domestic flights

Iran is a pretty big country, so for those short in time, taking a domestic flight would be wise, especially for going from Tehran to places like Qeshm Island, Mashhad or Shiraz. 

You can check flight schedules and book your tickets through 1stQuest, and you can get a 5% discount on ALL flights:

With voucher code: ATC-QST

Bus – Buses are the way to go in Iran. There are endless connections and the VIP buses are particularly comfortable and not expensive at all.

Because of the sanctions, in Iran, most booking sites don’t accept international foreign cards. Before, you could book them via 1stQuest but they are not offering this particular service anymore. However, you may still use 1stQuest for visa services, hotels, flights, travel insurance and tours. 

Accommodation in Iran

As you may know, popular websites such as Booking.com , don’t have hotels listed in Iran.

Therefore, how can you book a hotel in Iran? Well, you have a couple of options:

• Via your travel agency (if you go on a tour)
• Making a phone call
• Just showing up and trying your luck
• Via a local booking website like 1stQuest

From luxury hotels to backpacker hostels, 1stQuest has many listed hotels all over the country. 

You can get a 5% discount in ALL your hotels bookings.

Use my promotional code: ATC-QST

Side note – Keep in mind that the Iranian Government sometimes blocks this sort of travel websites, so 1stQuest may not be accessible from an Iranian server. In this case, there are 2 things you can do: 1 – Book the different hotels in advance, before going to Iran 2 – Get a VPN for Iran like ExpressVPN to access censored sites. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Best books for backpacking in Iran

Here’s a selection of a few useful books but, for a complete list, check the best books about Iran , classified into politics, history and novels

Bradt guide – Bradt has always the most comprehensive guides to the most off-beat countries. I love Bradt because they give plenty of tips for the independent traveler, as well as loads of cultural insights.

Lonely Planet guide – I personally prefer Bradt but, if you are a Lonely Planet fan, they have just released their latest edition for Iran.

Best graphic novel – Persepolis – This is, perhaps, the most famous story ever written about Iran. It is the story of a non-religious woman, before and after the 1979 revolution. An easy way to understand the complexity of Iranian society.

Independent travel in Iran – 1-week Iran itinerary

Iran is a massive piece of land so, if you only have one week, after Tehran, the closest cities are Kashan and Esfahan.

In Iran, you have to pay to enter most sites, including all the mosques, gardens and museums I am suggesting in this article. Usually, most sites charge between 150,000 and 200,000IR , which is 5 to 10 times more than what the locals have to pay

Map of the one-week Iran travel itinerary

Day 1 – Tehran

The capital of Iran is a real chaotic metropolis, where you can find an extremely mixed society, both the traditional, conservative Iran and the most hipster people in the country.

From ancient bazaars to 21st-century malls, Tehran is a very surprising city that could you keep busy for several weeks. This mixed society reminded me a lot to Beirut .

If you are lucky and the sky is clear, you must go to Tabi’at Bridge , the place from where you get the best views of the Tehran skyline.

Also don’t forget to check out the Grand Bazaar of Tehran , a real maze of bustling streets and carpet shops, and Golestan Palace , located in the middle of the city jungle but where you find beautiful gardens and the classic, colorful Persian tiles Iran is famous for.

A lot of people who visit Iran also go to Caucasian countries. Read my ultimate guide for traveling to Georgia

Moreover, if you are into politics, don’t forget to check out what used to be the actual USA Embassy before the 1979 revolution, as today it is a museum with plenty of anti-American propaganda.

Last, if you wanna take a break from all the chaos, go to Darband , located at the bottom of Mount Tochal and almost reachable by metro. With plenty of waterfalls and small day-treks, this was my favorite spot in the city.

For more information, read: Things to do in Tehran in 2 days

The best tours in Tehran

• Old Town Tehran – Oudlajan is the old quarter of Tehran and this walking tour will take visit all highlights.
• The Armenian Quarter – Tehran is home to a large Armenian Christian population and in this tour you will explore the area where they live.
• Golestan Palace – One of the top attractions in Tehran.

You can get a 5% discount on ALL your tours.

Where to stay in Tehran

You can get a 5% discount on ALL your hotel bookings.

Backpacker Hostel – Heritage Hostel – Plenty of common areas, a beautiful garden with a Persian pool, a barbecue place, and very modern facilities. I honestly think that this is the best hostel in the country and the best choice for independent travelers in Iran.

Budget Hotel – Khayyam Hotel – A cheap option, but very good, option near the Grand Bazaar of Tehran, so this is a great choice for budget travelers that don’t want to stay in a hostel.

A bit nicer – Hejab Hotel – A good option for mid-range travelers.

For more options, check Best areas to stay in Tehran .

Getting out of Tehran

Since this is the capital, you can come and go by public transportation from anywhere in the country.

Against the Compass tip – In order to save time, some independent travelers book a one-way ticket to either Shiraz, Yazd or Esfahan and visit all the cities on their way back.

Kashan isn’t the greatest of all the Persian cities but its privileged location makes it very convenient for any Iran itinerary.

This also means that tour groups abound but this shouldn’t put you off because I can’t deny that it is actually pretty and, if you don’t have the time to visit Yazd, Kashan also has the famous wind towers and windy mud-brick alleys.

Besides the classic bazaar, where you can check out the textiles Kashan is popular for, don’t forget to visit Khan Amin al-Dowleh Timche , a mosque with one of the craziest dome ceilings; the traditional Persian Fin Gardens and the unique  Agha Bozorg , a big mosque whose wall colors are confused with the houses from the old city.

For more information, read: Things to do in Kashan

Against the Compass tip – If you want a more off the beaten track option, Qom  is a better alternative to Kashan. I personally didn’t go there but it is a very holy city with some amazing shrines and the location is also very convenient the 1-week Iran itinerary.

Best day trips from Kashan

To be very honest, Kashan isn’t my favorite place but I have to say that this is a good base for doing a few great day trips:

• Nushabad – 2,000-year old labyrinthic ruins.
• Maranjab desert – Sand dunes with epic sunsets.

You can visit both on a combined tour.

Where to stay in Kashan

Budget Hostel – Sana Historical Hostel – With both private rooms and dorms and located right in the old town, Sana is the most popular choice for independent travelers. 

Budget Traditional House –   Kamal-a Molk House  – A beautiful, and very cheap, traditional guest house in the heart of Kashan.

Mid-range – Mahinestan Raheb – A few hundred-year-old house which has been beautifully restored into a beautiful hotel, very comfortable and lovely.

For more options, here you can see all the available hotels in Kashan

How to get to Kashan from Tehran

It’s very easy. Buses run regularly and it is only a 3-hour journey. You can also go by train but it takes 1 or 2 additional hours.

Day 5, 6 – Esfahan

Tip – If you have more than a week, consider staying in Esfahan for at least 3 or 4 days.

Esfahan is Iran’s most amazing city and its mosques are one of the main reasons independent travelers come to Iran.

With hundreds of years of history, Esfahan has always been home to a very important community of intellectuals and scholars and, historically, its importance was often compared to Athens or Rome.

Today, according to Iranian standards, this is a pretty modern city, very clean, composed of perfectly tree-lined streets, which makes it very pleasant to walk around.

The first place you need to go is Imam Square , where you find both the Shah Mosque and  Sheikh Lotfallah Mosque , whose ceilings and domes will leave you breathless.

Imam Square is also a place where locals hang out, especially during late afternoon and evening, so I recommend you not to rush and stay there for a while.

During the day, I suggest you stroll down the old bazaar , one of the nicest in the country, with plenty of spices and the worldwide famous creepy mannequins.

In the evening, a good idea is to head to the river to see the different historical bridges, the most famous being  Si-o-seh Pol . However, the last time I was there in April 2018, the river was completely dry, which made me very sad.

Oh! By the way, Esfahan is also famous for some sweets called gaz , which are filled with walnuts and have a gummy texture. Also, don’t forget to look for the local biryani (which is quite different from Indian and Pakistani) and saffron ice-cream .

Where to stay in Esfahan

Budget Hostel –   Ragrud Hostel – A brand-new hostel with very modern facilities, awesome staff and the best reviews ever. I am sure this place will, very soon, become very popular in Esfahan. 

Budget traditional house – Sarayeh Orbidehesht – If you prefer a traditional guest house, this one is really great.

Mid-Range Hotel – Setareh – Traditional breakfast, super friendly and English-speaking staff and very close to the main attractions.  

For more options: Click here to see all the available hotels in Esfahan  

How to get to Esfahan from Kashan

There are several buses all day long and it is just a 3-hour trip.

Independent travel to Iran – 2-week Iran itinerary

Most people would have two weeks for traveling independently in Iran.

If you want to save time, consider flying from Tehran to Shiraz, as you will save a 1,000-kilometer journey.

Map of the two-week Iran backpacking itinerary

With its perfectly-shaped old city, cute mosques, souvenir shops and plenty of decent coffee places, Yazd is, by far, the most touristic city in Iran. It reminded me a lot of Khiva in Uzbekistan .

With tens of tour groups overrunning the magnificent narrow alleys of the old town, to be very honest, I am not the biggest fan of Yazd but, truth be said, it is a very beautiful city and, perhaps, the most photogenic in the country.

Moreover, I also liked Yazd because it is a nice place to chill out. After hectic travels and hard-backpacking, it is always nice to finally be in a place where you are just one more tourist, find good accommodation, coffee and loads of food choices.

So yeah, I actually enjoyed Yazd and it should be a must on any Iran itinerary.

This used to be a Silk Road trading town, so there is a lot of heritage dating from that period. The coolest thing to do in Yazd is get lost in the old city, while you check the wind-towers and stumble across the different sites and mosques, the most remarkable being Masjed e-Jameh , a mosque from the 15th century and one of the tallest in Iran, with 48-meter minarets.

At sunset, you must go to a rooftop to enjoy the views . There are many hotels and cafés that allow you to do that.

Some places will charge you 1€, while in others you just need to order something. I can’t recommend anyone in particular because all of them have different views and perspectives but Orient Hotel is a popular spot.

Moreover, just outside of the old city, you find the  Amir Chakhmaq complex , the famous three-storey facade building and the main landmark in the city.

Also, you should know that Yazd has the second largest population of Zoroastrians, a religion that dates back at least 4,000 years and was the official religion in the pre-Islamic Persian Empire.

Here, they have one of their holiest sites, the Fire Temple , which has a flame which they claim hasn’t stopped burning since the 5th century .

Where to stay in Yazd

Budget Hostel – Shahdad – The only real backpacker hostel in town, this traditionally decorated hostel is the best option for budget travelers.

Mid-range Hotel –   Moshir al Mamalek Garden Hotel – You will love this place. A building with real wind towers, many travelers claim that this the best hotel they ever stayed in Iran.

For more options: Click here to check all the available hotels in Yazd

How to get to Yazd from Esfahan

Esfahan to Yazd is a good 4 to 5-hour ride and buses run frequently.

Day 10, 11, 12 – The desert of the Kaluts

In Kerman province, quite far away from everything, you find the Kaluts, the most silent and remote desert I have ever been to.

Here, NASA registered the highest temperature ever found on the Earth’s surface (71ºC) so, if possible, try not to come in summer. Nevertheless, the temperature cools down exponentially in the evening, so you should be fine for the sunset.

Life is not possible in the Kaluts, not even microorganisms, but its beauty and sunsets are out of this world, similar to the Mars landscape so, if you are fancying some desert adventure, this is the place to go.

If you have time, you can also visit Kerman city, as well as  Shazdeh Garden and  Shah Nematollah Vali Shrine. These sites are quite off the beaten track and the people in Kerman are always happy to meet foreigners.

The closest settlement to the Kaluts is an oasis town named Shahdad , famous for its date plantations, handicrafts made of palm trees, lovely traditional guesthouses and desert fortresses.

For more information, read my guide: A trip to the desert of the Kaluts

Where to stay in the Kaluts

You can camp if you go on a pre-arranged tour but, if not, you can stay at the nearest village called Shahdad. There is a very budget guest house called Ab Anbar and a fancier one named Nebka . Both are nice.

How to get to the Kaluts from Yazd

If you are traveling independently in Iran, first, you need to go to Kerman city, which is around 400km from Yazd. It is quite a journey, so I recommend you take an overnight bus (or train).

Shahdad is 100km from Kerman and a taxi would roughly cost 850,000IR.

I love Shiraz.

Actually, I stayed here for 10 days, mainly because I was doing a project for a company but I enjoyed my time very much.

For some reason which I don’t know, the people from Shiraz are very open-minded, more than other cities in Iran. Actually, I drank more alcohol here than anywhere else in the country.

One day, one guy invited me to his house at 9:30am in the morning and gave me some shots of arak . It was a nice feeling to wander around Shiraz a bit tipsy after that.

There are also a lot of things to do in Shiraz, like visiting Vakil mosque , Nasir al-Molk , the famous mosque with the famous color effect from the sun rays; the ancient Vakil Bazaar , the less-visited, but outstanding, Shrine of Shah-e Cheragh and   Hazfez Tomb and, of course, the ancient Persepolis , the ruins of what used to be the center of one of the greatest empires that ever existed.

For more information, read my guide: Things to do in Shiraz

Day trips from Shiraz

To visit these places, you will have to add 1 or 2 additional days for each one to your original Iran itinerary.

• Visiting the Qashqai Nomads – Read my report here
• Exploring the ruins of the Sassanid Empire – Read my report here
• Trekking in the Zagros Mountains – Read my report here

Where to stay in Shiraz

Backpacker Hostel  – Taha Traditional Hostel – A real backpacker hostel, very well-located and great traveling atmosphere. Highly recommended! 

Boutique Hotel –  Niayesh  – The busiest hotel in town, where everybody stays, from backpackers to wealthy couples and tour groups. Breakfast is included and it has several outdoor areas where you can rest and get some food.

For more options: Click here to see all the available hotels in Shiraz

How to get to Shiraz from Kerman

It’s a 7 or 8-hour trip, so I strongly recommend taking a night bus.

Getting out of Shiraz

You can take a direct bus to Tehran, no problem, but if you want to save time, consider flying.

Independent travel to Iran – 3-week Iran itinerary

It’s mandatory to have a travel insurance to get your visa on arrival in Iran. Because of the sanctions, most insurance companies don’t provide coverage for Iran, but IATI Insurance does. Get your exclusive 5% discount if purchasing via this link

If you have an extra week for independent travel in, consider getting off the beaten track, so I suggest you visit Golestan province and Mashhad.

This is just my personal opinion but the truth is that I really loved these places. Let me tell you why.

Map of the 3-week travel itinerary to Iran

Day 15, 16 – Mashhad

There are two reasons to visit Mashhad:

One is to visit the Imam Reza Shrine and the other is to stay at Vali’s .

As you may know, Mashhad is the holiest place in Iran and one of the most important cities for Shia Muslims in the world. The reason is that the shrine is where Imam Reza rests, the 8th Imam of Twelver Shiïtes.

The shrine is the largest religious complex in the world and, when you step in, it is easy to understand why. It is f*** huge and you will lose count of all the courtyards and different mosques.

Cameras in Mashhad The only downside is that you can’t take in a professional camera but only your phone. I didn’t know that and had to leave my camera and tripod at the entrance and didn’t have battery on my phone, so no pictures for me. Moreover, if they see you are a foreigner, they will assign you a guide, which kind of sucked as well, because mine didn’t explain anything to me but just made me follow him. You can, however, sneak in easily.

As the top pilgrimage site in the country, Mashhad is a wealthy city with great tourism infrastructure, as it receives loads of pilgrims from Lebanon and Iraq , two countries with large Shia populations.

There is a modern metro line and plenty of different food options, including Lebanese restaurants.

The second reason to come is to stay at Vali’s. Vali has a family homestay that, for years, has hosted plenty of international travelers, especially overlanders going (or coming) from Afghanistan and Turkmenistan.

I stayed 4 days at his house as the only guest and we celebrated the Iranian New Year, ate great homemade food and they just took very good care of me.

Besides, he has plenty of stories to tell, is very talkative and can you take outside of the city for day trips.

Visit Vali’s website for more details.

Best day trips from Mashaad

I recommend you go to Kang, a traditional stepped village 50km from Mashhad. It’s very beautiful to see and there are some small trekking opportunities around the area.

To go there, take the Metro Line 1 to Vakilabad and then a bus or shared taxi. Additionally, a trip by taxi from the city center with 1-hour visit costs 600,000IR.

Where to stay in Mashhad

Budget Homestay – Vali’s – Like I said, staying at Vali’s is one of the best things to do in Iran. Visit his website for more information .

Mid-range –  Darvishi Royal Hotel – Vali’s is great but it’s a place for budget backpackers. If you wanna stay in a good hotel, this is one of the best options in town. 

How to get to Mashhad

Being the most visited city in the country, you can get here on a direct bus or train from anywhere in Iran, including Shiraz, if you are following the suggested itinerary.

The only downside is that Mashhad is really far away, no matter where you are, so if don’t have much time, consider flying in. I personally went by train from Bandar Abbas and it was a 23-hour journey.

Day 17, 18 – Gonvad e-Kavus

Gonvad e-Kavus is the main city in Golestan province, one of the least visited provinces in Iran but, controversially, the most beautiful.

I bet that you didn’t know that this province is home to the largest population of Turkmens, the actual people from Turkmenistan. This means that, in Golestan, there is a clear Central Asian culture, visible in their food, nomadic life and Mongolian features.

In Gonvad-e Kavus you find a UNESCO World Heritage site (a 72-meter tower), handicraft shops selling traditional Turkmen products and is the gateway to some of the most striking scenery in the whole country.

Golestan is the ultimate destination for independent travel to Iran.

For more information, read my  travel guide to Golestan

Where to stay in Gonvad e-Kavus

There are very few options and your best bet will be staying in  Hotel Ajam or Couchsurfing.

How to get to Gonvad e-Kavus from Mashhad

You should take a night bus. It’s an 8-hour journey.

Day 19, 20 – Khalid Nabi

Also located in Golestan, Khalid Nabi is the most stunning site I visited in my Iran itinerary, and not for the site itself but because it is located in the most epic spot ever.

Basically, Khalid Nabi is a cemetery where a pre-Islamic prophet and his followers are buried. The prophet is buried inside a cute building, whereas all his followers are found under some penis-shaped rocks.

The bigger the penis is, the older the man when he died. If you see a cross-shaped rock, it means that the person buried is a woman.

The archaeological is not the only reason to come but the landscape is absolutely gorgeous and the area is filled with small Turkmen villages and nomadic yurt camps.

Where to stay in Khalid Nabi

If you want to experience the real Turkmen and Central Asian culture, I recommend you stay in  Tamer-e Qarah Quzi , a village 35km before from Khalid Nabi. Here, there is a homestay run by Naim and his family, a Turkmen family that will bless you with their hospitality.

Besides, Naim can also take you for some trekking and visit nomadic camps.

Highly recommended!

How to get to Khalid Nabi and Tamer-e Qarah Quzi

To go to Tamer, you have to get a local shared taxi to Kalaleh (40,000IR) and, from there, a second one to Tamer (40,000IR). Khalid Nabi is just 35km away from Tamer but the road is really bumpy so it takes around 1.5h.

A round-trip by taxi costs 400,000IR. I hitchhiked and was picked up by some Iranians from Tehran who were drinking vodka in the car. It was pretty cool.

Remember that, for more information, read my guide to Golestan province

Iran independent travel – 1-month Iran itinerary

If you have a full month, consider adding the Persian Gulf Island and the north-west to your Iran itinerary.

Map of the 30-day travel itinerary to Iran

Qeshm Island – 3 extra days from Shiraz

Note – You should come here after Shiraz.

If you wanna taste the Persian Gulf culture, I suggest you add Qeshm Island to your Iran itinerary.

The Persian Gulf culture is the traditional culture from Oman , Saudi Arabia , the United Arab Emirates and, of course, south Iran. This culture, however, is fasting disappearing in the Arab countries but, fortunately, not in Qeshm.

The inhabitants of Qeshm are Sunni Wahabis, the most conservative branch of Islam. The most surprising thing is the way local women dress, in such colorful  abayas  and wearing some strange masks. It may seem a bit intimidating but they are actually quite laid-back and you can take photos of them, no problem.

Qeshm is also famous for its geology, consisting of strange rock formations. To see this, go at sunset to Star Valley .

I also suggest you visit the  Shib Deraz and the Sea Turtle Breeding Area , Hengam Island , Laft and, of course, try the local food, which consists of spiced seafood.

You can also take a ferry to Hormuz Island , which leaves every day at 9am and 2pm. I personally didn’t go but I have been told that it is a beautiful island.

The only downside of Qeshm Island is that, for people who travel independently in Iran, the public transportation options are scarce.

For more information, read my travel guide to Qeshm Island

Where to stay in Qeshm Island

I recommend you pick one place and do day trips from there.

I personally pitched my tent in Shib Deraz beach but there are a few good options to stay around the island.

In Qeshm, there are some nice hotels and, if you want to stay somewhere remote, stay in Sar Rig Village, at Asad’s Homestay.

How to get to Qeshm Island from Shiraz

From Shiraz, you need to take a bus to Bandar Abbas (8 hours, 500km).

Once in Bandar Abbas, go to the ferry terminal. Boats leave every half an hour (150,000IR).

Masuleh – 3 extra days from Tehran

Masuleh is the most famous stepped mountain village in Iran.

However, being the most famous means that it gets a mix of different opinions and feelings.

The most voracious travelers will tell you not to go because it gets swamped with local tourists, souvenir shops, and pricey restaurants, whereas the rest will tell you that it is a lovely village and you must go.

In my opinion, both are kind of wrong. On the one hand, it is true that Masuleh gets all the attention from all the travel guides and this is because it is actually very cute and has a developed tourist infrastructure.

On the other hand, despite being very touristic, most tourists just remain in the village, without knowing that Masuleh is surrounded by some of the most awesome mountains in the country, composed of lush, green plains and remote shepherd huts, which offer amazing trekking opportunities.

I went trekking myself and didn’t bump into absolutely anyone. So yeah, I think that you should definitely come.

For more information, read my travel guide to Masuleh

Where to stay in Masuleh

I stayed in a random homestay and you can do the same because there are many but they can’t be booked online. 

If you are looking for comfort, Aram Hotel seems like a popular mid-range option.

How to get to Masuleh from Tehran

You need to first go to Fuman, which takes 4 hours from Tehran. Masuleh is 34km from Fuman and private taxis cost 300,000-400,000IR. Local shared taxis leave from a station 3km from the main bus station and they cost 100,000-150,000IR.

Additionally, if you don’t find buses to Fuman, you can also go to Rasht, which is a bigger city very close to Fuman.

Tabriz – 3 extra days from Masuleh

The city where the famous Persian carpets come from and where you find the largest covered bazaar in the world, Tabriz is a real off the beaten track city and, practically, the only visitors are overlanders coming from the Caucasus countries.

The bazaar has been listed as a UNESCO Heritage site so, if you are into bazaars, it doesn’t get much better than this.

Tabriz also has some very friendly people who haven’t been spoiled by mass tourism yet, so people are quite a highlight, as well. Don’t forget to visit the Blue Mosque , even though due to an earthquake, it still undergoing a long restoration process.

Best day trip from Tabriz: Kandovan

I also suggest you go to Kandovan , often called the little Cappadoccia, a very peculiar cave city easily reachable from Tabriz. You can book you

For this, you should first take a bus to Osku, which shouldn’t cost more than 40,000IR. Then, a taxi to Kandovan would cost 200,000IR roughly.

Where to stay in Tabriz

Budget Hotel – Ramsar Guest House – Cheap accommodation for backpackers. (online booking not available)

Mid-range Hotel – Tabriz el Goli Pars – Nothing fancy but good quality service according to its price range.

For more options: CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL THE HOTELS AVAILABLE IN TABRIZ

How to get to Tabriz from Masuleh or Tehran

If you are in Masuleh, you should go to the city of Rasht, where you may find direct buses.

If you are in Tehran, take an overnight bus because it is a very long way. They leave daily.

More resources for independent travel in Iran

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

Remember to always use my code – From booking a hotel to visa services, travel insurance and tours, if it is via 1stQuest , remember that you can use my 5% discount code, as many as you want, whenever you want:  ATC-QST

All guides and articles for traveling in Iran destination

• Iran Travel Guide
• Best Books about Iran
• Travel insurance for Iran
• VPN for Iran
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Iran
• Tehran Travel Guide
• Qeshm Island Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Shiraz
• A trip to the desert of the Kaluts
• Trekking Guide to Zagros Mountains
• Meeting the Qashqai People
• Fars Province Travel Guide
• Visa Guide for Iran
• Masouleh Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Golestan Province
• Iran-Iraq border crossing
• Is Iran Safe?
• Darband Travel Guide
• Best Hotels in Tehran

Travel Itineraries to other countries in the Middle East

• Syria Itinerary
• Saudi Arabia Itinerary
• Travel Guide to Oman
• Travel Guide to Lebanon
• Iraq Itinerary

You might also like our Pakistan Travel Guide or Azerbaijan Travel Guide .

You will also be interested in: Where in the Middle East is safe? and The most beautiful places in the Middle East .

Hello Joan, how are you? Just discovered your website today and I have to say that this is the most useful blog I have ever visited 🙂 I have a question. I have 3 weeks in Iran and besides doing the classic itinerary from Tehran to Shiraz I also want to visit one of the less visited places you recommend. I can’t decide between Kurdistan and Golestan. Which one would you go with? Thank you in advance

Hey man! That’s a very hard question to answer! It really depends on what you like. To be honest, I haven’t visited much of Kurdistan, as I just passed through on my way to Iraq and spent less than 24 hours, but I traveled in Golestan extensively and i loved it because my Turkmenistan visa was denied in the past and Golestan is the closest place in the world to Turkmenistan, as most people there are ethnically and culturally like the Central Asian country. Kurdistan is also great, but I had already visited Iraqi Kurdistan before, so I preferred spending more time in Golestan

Having spent quite a bit of time in Iran over the years, I applaud your effort in promoting travels in this lovely country with exceptionally friendly people.

I would highly recommend your blog to friends who are planning to visit and so wish this was available when I was there.

Great job and keep up with the good work. Thank you!!!!

I really miss Iran, thanks for compiling some of the best things about it and putting it out there 🙂

Hello friend very compelete useful guide which encourage me (as an iranian & travel lover) to start visiting my country again, if this COVID-19 let us. I,ve visited most of the famous places when i was a kid with my family and i think a majority of them most be re-visited since i coudnt remember as well as your descriptions BTW, we pronounce that city in Golestan as Gonbad e-Kavus (NOT GonVad) and its not the main city of Golestan altough a large one (main is Gorgan)

Hello Joan. Thank you for your blog. I see you used a drone while in Iran. I thought they were banned. Would you mind to explain how you did? Thanks Antonio

Hi Antonio, I didn’t do anything. I just entered with it.

Impressive article, enjoyed reading it. Thanks for shedding light on this topic.

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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, Ireland, 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 2023: 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, Ireland, 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 Canada and Ireland Citizens: A Comprehensive Guide

How Can British, Irish, 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, Ireland, 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 2023? 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 2023: 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 | Can I Drink in Iran?

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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1 – 3 Weeks in Iran: The Ultimate Iran Itinerary

Iran, a country that is a dream to many travelers. Filled with delicious cuisine, beautiful architecture, and out of this world like landscapes, there is something in Iran for everyone. However, knowing where to go in a country as large as Iran can be difficult so to help you out we have created the ultimate Iran itineraries for you below. No matter if you have one week, two weeks or three weeks to spent in Iran, the destinations below are the ones you will want to add to your Iran bucket list . Explore the bustling cities of Tehran, Shiraz and Isfahan or go off the beaten path in the East and South of Iran; there are simply so many things to do and see, and you don’t want to miss out, because you never know when you’ll be back. Keep on reading to find out which destinations in Iran you should add to your itinerary…

Please note: This post contains affiliate links. This means that purchasing a product or service via these links may earn us a small commission (at no extra cost to you of course).

1 Week in Iran: Iran’s Most Beautiful Cities

Only have a short amount of time available? Don’t worry, there is a lot to see in a week, and even a week in Iran is worthwhile your time. 1 Week in Iran is just enough time to see Iran’s most famous and most beautiful cities: Tehran, Isfahan and Shiraz. Travel from North to South and stop in Isfahan, a city that is said to be half the world, and see some of the most beautiful mosques, landscapes and eat some of the most delicious Persian cuisine. Have a taste of some of the best Iran has to offer, and leave the smaller cities and off the beaten path destinations for your next visit to Iran. If you only have limited time, and budget is not something you take into account, you might want to fly to save some time and spent all your time in the cities. To give you a better idea of where the cities are located, check out the blue markers on the map below. Keep on reading to see why Tehran, Isfahan and Shiraz should be on your itinerary!

2 – 3 Days: Explore Tehran

Tehran, Iran’s capital and largest city, is a place you cannot leave of your Iran itinerary. Explore the vibrant hustle and bustle of this concrete jungle, a place that many people tend to leave of their itinerary, which is a shame as it has so much to offer. Wander around the Tehran’s bazaar, visit the former US embassy (now named the Den of Espionage) or admire the beautiful architecture of Golestan palace. These are just a couple of the many things to do in Tehran . As Tehran is home to Iran’s largest international airport, this will be most likely your start and ending point of your trip to Iran, and as such the perfect place to meet other travelers. We recommend to spend at least 2 days in the city, and if you have another day left, use it for a day trip to the mountains surrounding Tehran. From Tehran you can make your way North, should you have a lot of time, or if you are on a strict timeframe, head down South to the beautiful city of Isfahan!

Where to stay in Tehran

There is no shortage of hostels in Tehran, making it easy for the budget backpacker to find a place to stay. From private rooms to dorms, there is something for everyone’s liking in Tehran! Some of Tehran’s most popular places to stay, as of early 2019, are Hi Tehran Hostel , See You in Iran Hostel and Tehran Heritage hostel . And the best thing is, you can now easily book these all on Hostelworld, to see all hostels in Tehran available just click here ! Looking for more info, check out our complete blogposts on the best hostels for budget backpackers in Iran here .

The Azadi Tower in Tehran

3 Days: Visit Isfahan

“Isfahan is Half the World” as the saying goes. In the 16th century the reigning Shah Abbas chose Isfahan as its capital, filling it with bridges, mosques, gardens and many more wonderful architecture that can still be admired today. Many successors kept on adding beautiful architectural pieces, and as such Isfahan is still one of the most beautiful cities for architecture lovers, and photographers, visiting Iran. Admire some of Iran’s most beautiful mosques, such as the Shah Mosque , explore Isfahan’s bazaar or simply watch daily life go by at the Naqsh-e Jahan square. These are just some examples of the many unforgettable things to do in Isfahan . 3 Days should give you enough time to see some of Isfahan’s most beautiful highlights and experience some of Iran’s culture. For many travelers Isfahan is the highlight of their trip, especially those who are only visiting Iran’s cities, it is simply a place you cannot leave out of your Iran itinerary!

Where to stay in Isfahan

With the rising popularity of tourism in Tehran it isn’t hard to find budget and non budget accommodation in Isfahan. For budget accommodation, check out Hostelworld , as this is currently one of the few booking websites that allows you to book accommodation in Iran. Some of the most popular hostels in Isfahan are currently RagRug Hostel , a modern hostel located slightly out of the center of Isfahan, and Mahbibi Hostel , a more traditional hostel in a central location. These hostels both offer a selection of dorm rooms and private rooms, perfect for travelers visiting Iran on a budget .

The Jameh Mosque in Isfahan

2 -3 Days: Explore beautiful Shiraz & Persepolis

Shiraz, Iran’s 5th largest city, is located in the South of Iran and is one of Iran’s most popular tourist destination. The reason, its close proximity to the remains of Persepolis. And while Persepolis is a beautiful place, a place that draws tourists from all over the world, it isn’t the only reason you should visit Shiraz. Shiraz is also home to the tomb of Iran’s most famous poet, and to one of the most colorful and unique mosques in Iran: the Nasir al Mulk Mosque . Take a walk through Shiraz’s bazaar, explore Shiraz’s most beautiful mosques or simply indulge in the delicious Persian cuisine, these are just some of the many amazing things to do in Shiraz . You will need a full two days to admire the highlights of Shiraz, and if you are a history lover and came to Iran to see the ruins of Persepolis, you will need at least another half a day, as Persepolis is located 60km out of Shiraz. From Shiraz you can either decide to fly back to Tehran, if you are on a time crunch, or to enjoy the beautiful train ride through the desert and mountain landscapes of Iran.

Where to stay in  Shiraz

With most of Shiraz’s attractions being centrally located it is easiest to find a centrally located hostel, especially for those traveling Iran on a budget , so you can explore the city by foot. The easiest way to book accommodation in Shiraz is by using Hostelworld , as this is currently one of the few booking sites available that allows you to book a hostel in Iran. Currently, one of the most popular hostels in Shiraz is Taha Hostel but there are plenty of other options out there which you can find here !

2 Weeks in Iran: Highlights of Iran

If you have a little bit more time to spend extend your trip to a two week trip in Iran. While a week will give you just enough to scratch the surface of Iran’s beauty, two weeks will allow you to not only see the big cities, but also to see some smaller desert cities, which will guaranteed add value to your trip to Iran. From these desert cities it is easy to explore nearby deserts, mountains and see some of Iran’s most beautiful landscapes. Most people traveling to Iran will follow the itinerary below, as this covers the highlights of Iran. It will offer the best of both worlds: nature and architecture, and will allow you as a traveler to see what Iran is like! Curious to see what you should add to your Iran itinerary, check out the map below. Instead of just seeing Tehran, Isfahan and Shiraz, consider adding the two desert cities, Kashan and Yazd to your trip, read on below why these should be on your itinerary.

2 – 3 Days: Explore Kashan

Kashan, located conveniently between Tehran and Isfahan, is a town that is famous for its traditional houses, and impeccable views. Wander through the small alleys of the old town, visit the bazar, awe at the architecture of the traditional buildings or simply enjoy the view. From Kashan many travelers opt to either spent a day, or even a night in the desert, one of the most famous things to do in Kashan. A day could be all you need to explore this cozy city, but we recommend to spent at leas two days here to fully take it in, and not only explore Kashan, but also its surroundings. To find out exactly what there is to do in Kashan check out our complete guide to Kashan here . From Kashan, instead of taking the bus to Isfahan, opt to book a private tour, easily to be shared with other travelers, to see some of the beautiful stops between Kashan and Isfahan such as Abyaneh and the mosque in Aran va Bidgol.

Where to stay in Kashan

Accommodation in Kashan isn’t hard to find as it has is becoming more and more popular with tourist to visit this beautiful city. The best thing is to find accommodation that is located in the older part of town, as this will easily allow you to walk to the major sights and save some money on transport. Currently, the easiest way to book a hostel is by using Hostelworld , as this is one of the few booking sites out there that allows you to book hostels in Iran. Currently, one of the most popular places to stay for backpackers is Sana Historical Hostel , but you can find all available hostels in Kashan here .

The Agha Bozorg Mosque in Kashan

2 – 3 Days: Visit Yazd

Yazd, another desert city, located East of Isfahan. Yazd is the perfect stop between Isfahan and Shiraz, and can easily be added if you have more then a week to spend in Iran. There are many reasons to visit Yazd: to see the traditional wind towers of Yazd, created to keep the houses cool during hot summer days, to learn more about Zoroastrianism, or again, to explore the beautiful deserts of Iran. It doesn’t matter if you are an architecture lover or a nature lover, there is something for everyone in Yazd. Two days will be enough to see the city itself, if you have an extra day left in your Iran itinerary consider spending a day in the desert by booking a tour, available at one of the many tour offices in the heart of Yazd.

If you are looking to see a bit more off the beaten path of Iran, consider spending a night/day in the nearby town of Taft, at the lovely Nartitee Ecolodge. You will be warmly welcomed by a friendly family who cooks the most delicious food, will be able to tell you more about Zoroastrianism and has bikes available to cycle through the beautiful surroundings. The accommodation is simple, but so peaceful and surrounded by beautiful surroundings. Visiting Taft for a day was one of the highlights of our four week trip to Iran. Find out more info on Nartitee here .

Where to stay in Yazd

Besides deciding to perhaps stay in Taft for a night, it is easiest to book a local hostel with a central location for Yazd. From here it will be easy to find restaurants and many of Yazd’s most beautiful sights. One of the most popular hostels currently available on Hostelworld is Badgir Hoste l. To see all hostels available in Yazd here , to find the best fit for you. Looking for an overview of the best hostels in Iran, be sure to check out our complete guide to budget accommodation in Iran here.

The Jameh Mosque in Yazd.

3 Weeks in Iran: off the beaten path Iran

Want to turn two weeks to three weeks in Iran? Don’t worry, there is enough to see and to do in Iran to keep you busy for weeks. If you have more then two weeks to spend in Iran, consider going off the beaten path in Iran. Instead of making your way from Yazd to Shiraz, opt to go more East, and more South in Iran, this is the itinerary we followed below ourselves for 3,5 weeks in 2017. Visit one of the most unique and beautiful deserts of Iran: the Lut desert and make your way South to explore the beautiful Persian gulf area. This is the ultimate itinerary for adventure travelers, who love to see a bit more then the touristic sights in Iran. While you might run into a few other tourists in these areas, you can easily also go without seeing any for days. Visit the Lut desert and visiting the Persian Gulf is a unique experience, and perfect if you are looking to see a bit more of Iran’s unique and beautiful landscapes. Keep on reading to find out a bit more on these unique destinations!

2 Days: Desert Tour of the Kaluts

If you have been in the Middle East or Africa before then the sand dune deserts of Yazd and Kashan might not be that spectacular to you. If that is the case you might want to skip on the more touristy desert tours, and opt for a more off the beaten path desert instead: the Dasht-e Lut desert, also named the Lut desert. The Lut desert is located East of the city of Kerman and is home to Kaluts, unique sand formations like no where else in the world. It is the Kaluts that earned this desert a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. The easiest way to visit the Lut desert is by setting up a tour from Kerman, this is also the most advisable way to visit the Lut desert as visiting the Kaluts without a guide is illegal, the reason being their concern for your safety. The Lut desert is partially located in the Sistan and Baluchestan region, for which many countries give a strong negative travel advice due to the drug smuggling that happens in these regions. We experienced none of these dangers when visiting the Lut desert and considered it one of the most unique experiences of our trips. Read more about safety in Iran and other tips in our article on 86 things you must know before traveling to Iran .

Lut Desert in Iran.

2 – 3 Days: Qeshm Island

Qeshm Island is located in the Persian Gulf and has slowly been gaining popularity with foreign tourists visiting Iran, and we cannot blame them, as it is one of the most stunning and unique locations of Iran. Not only many off the beaten path travel bloggers, but also vloggers, are now visiting this stunning part of Iran known for its rugged landscapes and delicious Persian sea food cuisine. Explore the wildlife of Qeshm, tour the island for some of the unique landscapes such as Chahkooh Valley or perhaps explore the world’s longest salt cave, you can do it all on Qeshm Island. If you are planning on visiting Qeshm Island be sure to check out our complete Qeshm island travel guide , containing all info on how to get there, things to do and many more tips!

Valley in Qeshm Island.

1 -2 Days: Hormuz Island

East of Qeshm Island you can find the small island of Hormuz, known for its red color earth that makes the whole island look like it located on another planet. While small, this island is simply like no other, offering stunning landscape views a rainbow valley and some beautiful unique red sand beaches. As Hormuz island is small you can easily combine visiting the island with a visit to Qeshm and simply scooter or take a tuktuk around the island for a day. But it might be worthwhile your time to stay the night and see the sunset, and the sunrise over the beautiful Persian Gulf before making your way back to the main land. There are ferries going daily to the mainland coastal city of Bandar Abbas (from where the ferries to Qeshm also leave). From Bandar Abbas make your way up North to the beautiful city of Shiraz to end your trip.

Red Landscapes of Hormuz.

Make it 4 Weeks in Iran

And there you have it, a one to three week itinerary for Iran, each depending on personal preferences and amount of time available. However, the adventure doesn’t have to end there, as there are many more beautiful places to visit, enough to keep you busy for weeks. If you are looking to add some more off the beaten path destinations to your itinerary you might want to check out these places:

• Mashhad – Mashhad is located in Northeast Iran and is mainly known for religious pilgrimage reasons, and while fairly unexplored, it is actually the second largest city of Iran.
• Tabriz – Tabriz is located North of Tehran, and for most people is considered a bit too far out of their itinerary for Iran. However if you have the time it might be worth exploring as it is home to one of the oldest bazaars in the Middle East.
• Kermanshah –  Kermanshah is located in the Kurdish region of Iran (West Iran). Due to its location it is often skipped by travelers, meaning only the most off the beaten path travelers head this way.

And there you have it, everything you need to know to create your ultimate Iran itinerary. Looking for more inspiration on Iran? Find all our blogposts on Iran here or check out our complete Iran travel guide … and oh, don’t forget to pin it!

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Whether you’re a world traveler or just started traveling, it’s wise to gather some information prior to your trips. Having some general knowledge about your destination will give you a better understanding of the culture and history of the place you’re visiting and help you plan your trip with more certainty. Doing research and reading an Iran travel blog is rather necessary before traveling to Iran, as many travelers have false beliefs or very little knowledge of this amazing country. You’ll find accurate information on the best Iran destinations and facts about Iran mountains ( Mount Damavand , Mount Alam-Kuh , etc.), Iran deserts , and other Iran tourist attractions on various parts of our website and also on this Iran travel blog page. You can also find a useful collection of Iran travel tips, things you need to know before you travel to Iran and things to do in Iran. This set of interesting information can help you get a sense of Iran and have an enjoyable Iran Trip.

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Destination Iran articles are presented in its Iran travel blog. It’s where you find lots of blog posts about all the categories defined at this website. There is a whole range of various topics covered here:Tourism: It covers what’s important to know about tourism in Iran, tips, and advice for the travelers to be aware of how to make the most of their visits to Iran. Culture: Iran is a vast country with an ancient history. Iran travel blog covers the cultural features of Iranians, their traditions, customs, rituals, and skills among other things. History: It covers history eras and how it has been developed since antiquity. Sites: There is a huge number of historic sites in Iran. This category covers the most outstanding ones. Geography: As Iran is a vast country with a large diversity in its geography, Iran travel blog helps you understand how different various parts of it could be. News: It covers cultural and tourism developments in Iran. So, you will learn about tourism in Iran and the facilitation process concerning your possible trip to Iran. Also, you learn about cultural events.Please make sure you visit all those categories of Iran travel blog as you will discover several interesting blog posts to read. Don’t hesitate to comment on those posts as your opinions are valuable to us.

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Iran Travel Blog

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About this Iran travel blog

I spent 3 weeks backpacking through Iran in February and March 2017. My trip took me to the cities of Tehran, Kashan, Isfahan, Shiraz and Yazd. Mostly I stayed in hostels and cheap hotels, but I also did a small amount of couchsurfing.

If you have any questions about travelling through Iran, catch me on my  Facebook page  or in the comments sections of any of my posts.

If you are after more of a guide to Iran rather than a travel blog, check out my Iran Travel Guide .

Tehran to Kashan

I decided to leave Tehran after a few days. I will be back in Tehran before I fly out at the end of my trip and plan to write about it in more detail then. I only have 19 days and I wanted to make sure I have enough time to see the other cities in […]

Kashan – The Fin Gardens

The story goes that Kashan, a city in Iran, was the home of the three wise men who followed the star that guided them to Bethlehem to witness the nativity of Jesus. I haven’t verified this story, but I suspect there are a dozen other cities in the middle east with a similar claim. What I […]

Kashan – Baths, Houses and Bazaars

My accommodation in Kashan, Sadeghi House, was really well located. It was very near to the Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse as well as two of the historic old houses in Kashan. These two houses and the bathhouse can all be visited on a combined ticket for 350,000 IRR, about 9€ […]

Couchsurfing in Iran

While researching this trip to Iran I read several travel blogs. Almost every blog includes a glowing report about Iranian hospitality. One young man I had met in Sri Lanka told me that to find accommodation, you simply need to get off the bus in each new city and wait. Almost immediately people will come up to […]

Iran Visa on Arrival

The Iran Visa on Arrival information contained here is based on my experience in February 2017. I applied for a visa on arrival at Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport. Once you disembark from your plane, you should immediately look for signs pointing you towards the visa area […]

Beautiful Isfahan

I have read many times that Isfahan is ‘one of the most beautiful cities in the world’. If you search that phrase on google you will find Isfahan mentioned many times in various lists and blogs. It is immediately obvious to see why Isfahan is considered such a beautiful city. The first place I and most […]

Shiraz – Persepolis and the Necropolis

Persepolis was the capital of the Persian Achaemenid Empire. An Empire that stretched from Greece to Pakistan. Persepolis isn’t to be missed when visiting Shiraz. Combined with a visit to Naqsh-e Rustam it makes for one of the best day trips you can do in Iran.

Why You Should Take Day Buses in Iran

Iran is really beautiful, but you need to travel during daylight hours if you want to see any of it as you travel from city to city. Some of my favourite photos were taken in transit and from the windows of buses. Check them out inside the article.

Shiraz – The Pink Mosque

Known colloquially as the Pink Mosque and absolutely one of the most beautiful mosques I have ever seen. Famous for its stained glass windows and oriented such that the sun’s rays illuminate the room in a way that puts Joseph’s Dreamcoat to shame.

Shiraz – Shah Cheragh Shrine

Today’s post is all about the Shah Cheragh Holy Shrine in Shiraz. I didn’t know much about it at all before arriving in Shiraz however it really blew me away. I have seen my fair share of religious buildings in Iran but this one is right up there. Don’t miss it.

Yazd – Trip to Kharanaq

My next stop in Iran was the city of Yazd to see among other things, the town of Kharanaq a 4,000 year old abandoned town 70 km from Yazd. Kharanaq is a city built entirely out of mud brick houses. While the town has been inhabited for 4,000 years, the mud brick buildings you see in these images date back around 1,000 years.

Yazd – Trip to Chak Chak

As part of my day trip out of Yazd, I visited a Zoroastrianism mountain shrine known as Chak Chak. Chak Chak is not just a small village in the mountains, but a Zoroastrian fire temple and the most sacred of the mountain shrines of Zoroastrianism.

Yazd – Ancient City of Meybod

Yazd is a destination in Iran that is packed with day-trip opportunities. One of those is Meybod, an ancient city that goes back to the pre-Islamic era of Iran and located 55km away. The centrepiece of Meybod, and the reason that it’s included in day trips, is the Narin Qal’eh castle. Narin Qal’eh is a mud brick fort built around 2000 years ago.

Yazd – Towers of Silence

What the hell are the Towers of Silence? Essentially they are a Zoroastrian structure used for excarnation or the ‘defleshing’ of a dead body. This excarnation takes place inside the pits located on top of a Tower of Silence! As the bodies break down, carrion birds, Vultures typically, would perform the excarnation.

Kashan – Trip to Abyaneh

Abyaneh is a village in Barzrud Rural District, in the Central District of Natanz County. It is located about 80km south of Kashan by car. Abyaneh is characterised by a peculiar reddish hue that comes from the mud bricks quarried from the mountains nearby. Like many of the traditional villages in Iran, these mud bricks are used almost exclusively to build the houses in the town.

Kashan – Maranjab Desert

Another reason that I returned to Kashan was to make a day trip to the Maranjab Desert and a nearby salt lake. The salt lake is a remnant of the Paratethys sea along with the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. The temperatures in Iran can reach up to 50°C during the summer months and there is very little rain and snow.

12 comments

Comment by will - monkeystealspeach.

Will - monkeystealspeach Reply March 24, 2017 at 8:38 am

Iran looks absolutely fascinating. I’ve really enjoyed your blog. I have some Iranian friends where I’m living in China, and I hope I can visit sometime – and write about it of course!

Comment by Hayden

Hayden Reply March 31, 2017 at 10:06 am

Thanks Will. I noticed quite a few travellers from Asia in Iran. Met a guy from Indonesia, a few from Malaysia, Japan and China. A great cross section of travellers.

Comment by saeed

saeed Reply May 22, 2017 at 2:53 pm

hi, Im from IRAN, Shiraz city, i liked the comments and ur blog, i like to offer our Guesthouse in Shiraz, and also tour package, if its ok you can publish it in tour page, i’ll be happy to answer your questions…. [email protected]

Comment by Courtney

Courtney Reply July 26, 2017 at 8:57 am

Hi there Hayden first of all I would like to thank you and commend you on your comprehensive blog, I like that you have included the history as well As well as the experience! I am looking at doing a similar route in the new year and travel much the same as you (cheap hostels/couchsurfing). Im a solo female traveler doing my own thing (no tour companies), how easy do you think it would be as in safety wise and did you meet any solo females on your travels? And second question, you mentioned there were areas north of Tehran you were interested in visiting but didnt get the chance, could you kindly divulge these places 🙂 ?

Hayden Reply July 26, 2017 at 2:08 pm

Hi Courtney!

Excellent questions! The general make up of travellers in the hostels in Iran I found to be not that different from what you would see in other areas of the world. The majority were solo travellers, and of them, a bit less than half would have been female. You will meet other solo female travellers in your very first hostel guaranteed. In fact, I spent about half of my time travelling with a girl I met there. If you are looking for company, you certainly won’t need to look that hard to find some.

The solo female travellers I spoke to were very happy with the safety in Iran. My personal experience is that it is a very safe and incredibly friendly country. If you read a few of the other travel blogs on Iran about the place, you will that same statement being made time and again. It really is true. Very safe and very friendly. The girl I met and ended up travelling with actually writes her own blog and has written a lot about Iran. I met her in a hostel in Shiraz. Check out her blog at http://travellingtheworldsolo.com . She is lovely and I am sure will answer any questions about solo female travel that you have.

If I had more time I would certainly have liked to get to Masshad. It is the second biggest city and an important pilgrimage city for Shia Muslims. However it is in the far north-east and not as convenient to get to as the other main cities. If I had more time I would have like to travel to Tabriz as well in the north-west. If you are heading to or from the Caucasus, stopping in Tabriz would make a lot of sense!

Comment by Reza Abbasi

Reza Abbasi Reply August 19, 2017 at 8:39 am

thanks for your post.I hope to see you again in Iran

Comment by André Oliveira

André Oliveira Reply November 19, 2017 at 12:12 pm

Salam Hayden, just wanted to say THANK YOU for putting together such comprehensive blogs of Iran. I used them at length to plan my own trip, which unfortunately ended a few weeks ago. I stayed in the vast majority of places you recommended and am glad to say Sadeghi House in Kashan and the Oasis Hotel in Yazd were definite highlights of the trip. Thank you for the (tips and) recommendations, and safe travels!

Hayden Reply November 25, 2017 at 2:52 am

Thanks alot André!

That is fantastic feedback to get back. I am really glad you had a good time in Iran. It’s an amazing country to visit.

Comment by laura

laura Reply January 12, 2018 at 9:58 am

Hey Hayden, Sounds amazing. Your itinerary is essentially what I am planning to do in June/July this year. My question is, do you think it would be possible to do it in 15 days? I can see you were there fore 3 weeks…. Would it be too much to try and do it in 15 days? Thanks Laura

Hayden Reply January 13, 2018 at 5:32 am

Hi Laura, In actuality, I think my trip was 18 days. So a little bit less than 3 weeks. Yes, it would be possible to do it in 15 days. Because I started and finished in Tehran I had to backtrack at one stage. As a result, I visited Kashan twice for example and also spent more time in Tehran than is needed. So yes, 15 days is doable.

One idea to save time is to fly into Tehran but leave from Shiraz. That way your trip is in one direction only. Or you could fly domestic from Shiraz to Tehran to connect back up to your flight from Tehran. That saves a bit of time that would otherwise be spent on buses.

Hayden Reply January 13, 2018 at 5:17 am

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Hayden Reply January 13, 2018 at 5:18 am

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5 Famous Coastal Cities in Northern Iran

3 Top Hotels in the West of Tehran

three of the best vegetarian restaurants in Tehran

Tourism Mapping in Iran A Complete Guide

The Magnificent Anahita Temple of Bishapur in Shiraz

The Current Currency of Iran

Noruz in Iran Embracing Tradition and Renewal

Khajoo Bridge: Isfahan’s Iconic Architectural Marvel

Elevating Your Adventure: Exploring Heyran Telecabin

Unveiling the Majestic Beauty of Cantor Church in Qazvin

The Timeless Elegance of Jameh Mosque of Nain in Isfahan

Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Khuzestan: Three Must-Visit Tourist Destinations

4 amazing places in Iran that you must see

Embark on an Enchanting Journey: Exploring the 4 Must-See Places in Sanandaj

Exploring Tehran: Four Must-Visit Places for an Unforgettable Trip

The Timeless Elegance of Persian Carpets

Daretakht Village in Lorestan

Discovering the Mystical Gateway Gate of Farafar in Yazd

Exploring the Architectural Marvels of Mosques in Iran

Discovering Tranquility: The Enchanting Noor House in Shiraz

Goharshad Mosque in Mashhad A Jewel of Islamic Architecture

Iran Announces Visa Waiver For 33 Countries

The Magnificent Doors of Jorjir Mosque in Isfahan

Shidvar Island A Hidden Gem in Hormozgan

Discovering the Timeless Beauty: Abbasian Historical House in Kashan

Hoz-e Soltan Salt Lake Unraveling the Wonders of Qom’s Natural Gem

Exploring the Rich Heritage of Qasr Manshi Palace in Isfahan

Exploring the Rich Heritage: Glassware and Ceramic Museum of Iran

Journey Along the Scenic Route Parsian – Bandar-e Bostanu Road to Bandar-e Moqam

Discovering Tehran’s Top 3 Cinemas

Exploring Tehran’s Rich History: 4 Historical Houses You Must Visit

Embracing Tradition The Radiance of Yalda Night

Naharkhoran Forest Park A Tranquil Oasis of Nature’s Grandeur

5 Iranian Deserts That Must Be Visited

5 Dream Routes by Train in Iran

5 Pristine Beaches in Iran, Discover the Serenity

Baluchistan People: Life on Iran’s Southern Edges

Unraveling the Wonders on a Journey to Kerman

Historical Landmarks in Babol City

Traveling in Iran: A Foodie’s Guide

Kashan: Gateway to Historical Wonders

Isfahan’s Jameh Mosque: Architectural Marvel

Dezful Historical Memories in Northern Khuzestan

Traditional Iranian Music: The Sounds of Iran

Hyrcanian Forests A Verdant Jewel of Northern Iran

Destination for Winter Holidays: Arsbaran

Ramsar City: Pearl of the Caspian Sea

The Most Famous Persian Cuisine (Part 2)

The Most Famous Persian Cuisine (Part 1)

Golestan Palace of Tehran: A Jewel of Persian Heritage

Saadi Tomb in Shiraz: A Poetic Pilgrimage to Persian Heritage

Introduction to 5 prominent museums of Isfahan

Kish Island: The Jewel of the Persian Gulf

Keys to Exploring Tehran: A Traveler’s Guide

Discovering the Natural Wonders of Kermanshah: Maragheh and Bisotun

Shopping in Tehran’s Ancient Bazaars

Hamedan Travel Experience: City of History and Nature

The Most Famous Traditional Houses of Kashan

3of the Best Hotels in Lorestan

Islamic Architecture in Iran: Beauty and Art in Historical Landmarks

3 Exceptional 5-Star Hotels in Mashhad

5 of the Best Hotels in Isfahan for a Memorable Stay

5 of the Best Hotels in Shiraz

5 of the Best Hotels in Tehran

Exploring the Southern Coastline of Iran: Reviving the Spirit in Hormozgan

Embracing Nature’s Embrace: Hiking in Iran’s Alborz Mountains

The Beautiful City of Kerman: Discovering Iran’s History and Culture

Journey to the Ancient Villages of Kashan

5 of Tehran’s historical palaces: grandeur and beauty in the capital

Top 5 Must Visit Destinations in Iran

10 Compelling Reasons to Travel to Iran

Travel to Iran: Unveiling Ancient Wonders and Enchanting Landscapes

Enchanting Tabriz: Exploring the Capital of Azerbaijan

Journey Along the Silk Road: Exploring Southeastern Iran

Yazd’s Architectural Marvels: Unveiling the Unique Beauty of Iran

Immersing in Local Culture: Vibrant Villages of Lorestan

Tourist Attractions in Alborz Province

Historical and touristic places of Isfahan

Tourist Attractions in Ardabil Province

Tourist Attractions in West Azerbaijan Province

Tourist Attractions in East Azerbaijan Province

Daryasar Plain

Shiraz at a glance

Discover the Best Tourist Beaches of Mazandaran

Tehran Railway Station; an old and magnificent station in the south of the capital

The best time to travel to Isfahan

Where is Pars El Goli Hotel in Tabriz?

Tang-e Dary kha; Excitement over the Rocks

Sobatan Country

Isfahan’s Thrill Seekers The Best Amusement Parks to Visit

10 tourist attractions in Shiraz

Visit Tehran’s Golestan Palace with a virtual tour

The top theme parks in Tehran for both adults and children

What are the loveliest cities in Iran?

How is life in Tehran?

Know Tehran’s most well-known streets

Hormozgan museums; Islands province of Iran

Interesting facts about Cube of Zoroaster

Learn about the Persian Gulf’s Iranian islands

Best Cafes in Tehran

Get to know the most beautiful roads in Iran

One day walking in Tehran, from Iranshahr to Etemad Gallery

Niavaran mountain complex

Stone Garden

Jabaliyeh historical Dome

Luxury tourist train in Isfahan

Where is the diamond of the Daria-i-Noor?

Five important museums in Iran that you must see

The Most luxurious Hotels in Iran

Five romantic hotels for honeymoon in Kish

What do you know about Tehran’s free entertainment?

Everything about Imam Khomeini Airport

Gachsaran sights

Famous cable car in Iran

Sights of Khorramshahr

Shahrekord sights

Sights of Babolsar

The best parks in Tehran

The best ecotourism resorts on Qeshm Island

Qazvin cantor Church

The best hotels in Kish in terms of travelers

Thirteenth day

Fateh Garden of Karaj

The most attractive historical houses of Yazd

Where is Baraghan village?

Yazd local food

The best cafes in Mashhad

Mellat park

Qeshm Kharbas Cave

Best Restaurants in Shiraz

Isfahan Bird Garden

Atiq Mosque

Yazd Clock Square

Vakilabad Park in Mashhad

The best hotels in Kerman

The best fast food in Mashhad

Attractions of Chabahar

Kerman Rhine Citadel

Zarch Aqueduct

Bibi Maryam Qeshm’s Tomb

Kerman’s Meymand village

Learn about the Kerman Rageh Valley

Olive Park Qeshm

Isfahan’s top restaurant

Ebrat Museum

Tehran’s greatest eateries

Tomb of Daniel

Dolat Abad Windcatcher

Sar Yazd Castle

Zanjan Archaeology Museum

Tomb of Cyrus

Deir-e Gachin Caravanserai

Pigeon Towers

Radkan Tower

Badab e Surt

Nashtifan Windmills

Varzaneh desert

Khalid Nabi Cemetery

Chal Nakhjir Cave

Screaming Forest of Torqabeh

Shahdad Kalouts

Dune of the Jinn

Takht-e Soleyman

Alexander’s Prison

Anzali Lagoon

Imamzadeh Saleh

Meshkinfam Art Museum

Anthropology Museum of Mashhad

Jabalieh Dome

Mausoleum of Poets

Nushabad Undergroud City

Cube of Zoroaster

Naqsh-e Rostam

Mirror and Lighting Museum of Yazd

Qajar Bathhouse

Sa’d al-Saltaneh Caravanserai

Masoudieh Palace

Reza Abbasi Museum

Aqa-Noor Mosque

Sar Aqa Seyyed Village

Carpet Museum of Iran

National Museum of Iran

Blue Mosque

Church of Saint Mary

shush castle

Tughrul Tower

Tarikhaneh Mosque

Jameh Mosque of Sari

Agha Bozorg Mosque and School

Dar ul-Funun School

Sarvestan Palace

Khargerd Ghiasieh School

Museum of Contemporary Arts

Karun River

Kharg Island

Saqqez City

Attractions in Dorud

Sirjan tourist attractions

Bijar tourist attractions

Soltaniyeh Dome

Chogha Zanbil Ziggurat

Stars valley

Azna Snow Tunnel

Laton Waterfall

Isfahan Music Museum

Uramanat Village

Abgineh Museum

Mohtasham Garden

Makhunik Village

Mirza Kuchak Khan Forest

Tehran Grand Bazaar

Imam Mosque in Semnan

Tomb of Ferdowsi

Mazichal village

Farshchian Museum

Vaziri Caved Museum

Sheikh Zahed Gilani’s Shrine

Zoroastrian Fire Temple

Shazdeh Garden

Vakil Bazaar

Indians Temple

National Jewelry Museum

Sorkheh Hesar Forest Park

Music Museum

Fly Land Food Park

Coconut Beach

Ghalat Village

Kariz Underground City

Baghou Village

Saqalaksar Dam

Veresk Bridge

Bakhtegan Lake

Shalmash Waterfall

Keeyow Lake

Zargar Village

Nature Bridge in Tehran

The Valley of the Statues

Kharanaq Village

Renaissance Village

Takht Garden

Margoon Waterfall

Siah Gav Twin Lakes

Chabahar Tourist Attractions

Shahr-e Rey Tourist Attractions

Meyghan Pond

Meshginshahr Suspension Bridge

Sheikh Safi al-Din Shrine

Lariha House

Dowlat Abad Garden

Amir Chakhmaq Complex

Zeinodin Caravanserai

Tourist Attraction in Ardabil

Yazd Water Museum

The Grand Bazaar of Kerman

Tehran Book Garden

Hamedan Traditional Bazaar

Simak Waterfalls

Jameh Mosque Of Kashan

Niloofar mirage

Visadar Waterfall

Khazine Valley

Katale Khor Caves

Rood Afshan Cave

Tar and Havir Lakes

Kakan Ski Resort

Kish Island

Karakal Desert

Kordan Village

Ghoortan Citadel

Kara Kelisa

Laft Village

Tamin Village

Liqvan Village

Haft-Rang Spring

Pouneh Zar Waterfall

Yakhmorad Cave

Haft Cheshmeh Waterfall

Shahkooh Village

Varian Village

Palangan Village

Abouzeid Abad Desert

Avisho Cave

Dizin Ski Resort

Darbandsar Ski Resort

Khan School

Chitgar Lake

Rishehr Beach

Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse

Chaldarreh Jungle

Tomb of Kamal-ol-Molk

30 Tir Street Tehran

Rush Forest

meymand village

Gorineh Waterfall

Time Museum

Eskilim Waterfall

Raghaz Canyon

Mollabashi historical house

Shah Nematollah Vali Shrine

Ocean Water Park

Aran va Bidgol

Abbāsi House

Shiraz Boraq Canyon

Namak Abrood

Chahkooh Canyon Qeshm

Mazandaran Ghost Lake

Aladaglar Mountains

Chabahar Martian Mountains

Dez Dam Lake

Tangi Sar village

Mina’s Dome

Yazd Khan Bath

Tehran Azadi Stadium

Hamedan Avicenna Mausoleum

Bisheh Waterfall of Lorestan

Tabriz El-Goli Park

Iran’s Traditional Dress

Tehran’s Jurassic Park

Darreh Eshq (The valley of love)

Tochal Ski Resort

Maharloo Lake

Olasbelangah Village

The Persian Qanat

Ancient City of Susa

Dome of Soltaniyeh

Shahr-e Sukhteh

Masjed-e Jamé of Isfahan

Armenian Monastic Ensembles of Iran

Chehel Sotoun

Tabiat Bridge

Shahdad Kalut

National Botanical Garden of Iran

Kandovan Village

Meymand Village

Golestan Palace

Holy Defense Museum

Abyaneh Village

Sa’dabad Complex

Carpet Museum

Valiasr Street

Babak Castle

Nasir-ol-molk Mosque

Chalus Road

Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System

Kashan’s Historical Homes

Katale Khor Cave

Tomb of Hafez

Hormuz Island

Bisotun and Taq-e Bostan

Mount Damavand

Imamzadeh Ja’far

Abgineh Museum of Tehran

Tomb of Khaled Nabi

Badab-e Surt

Tabriz Bazaar

Imam Reza shrine

Si-o-se Pol Bridge

Jangal-e Abr (Cloud Forest)

Zoroastrian Temple of Chak Chak

Stars Valley

Chogha Zanbil

Mausoleum of Esther and Mordecai

Ganjali Khan Complex

Naqsh-e Jahan Square

Qeshm Island

Eram Garden

Safi al-Din Ensemble

Iran Birdwatching

Uramanat Villages

Gonbad-e Kavus

Zoroastrian Towers of Silence

Vank Cathedral

Touran Biosphere Reserve

Christmas in Iran

Shab-e Yalda

Persian Peoples

Tang-E-Sayad & Sabzkuh Biosphere Reserve

Persian Calendar

Persian Saffron

Golestan Biosphere Reserve

Dena Biosphere Reserve

Assassin Castles

Persian Carpet

Persian Gulf

Persian Architecture

Persian Cuisine

Niavaran Palace Complex

Maranjab Desert

Chovgan Game

Meshginshahr suspension bridge

Yakh Morad Cave

Asalem – Khalkhal Road

Alisadr Cave

Ancient Iranian Nomads

Zrebar Lake

Burnik Cave

Karaftu caves

Churat Lake

Alimalat Lake

Howz e Soltan Lake

Sahvalan Water Cave

Danial Cave

Khourbas Cave

Historical Churches in Iran

Iranian calendars, iran drama and cinema, cuisine and culture, iran geography.

hormoz island in persian GulF

Ramadan month in iran

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Travel to Iran Made Easier: Updated Iran Visa-Free Policy

Exciting news for travelers worldwide! Iran is opening its doors wider than ever before, making it easier for tourists to embark on an unforgettable journey

What is the Best Time to Visit Iran?

Planning a trip involves considering various factors, such as cost, weather conditions, and sightseeing opportunities. Among these considerations, weather often takes center stage, as it

Pink Mosque Iran: A Journey to Nasir-al Mulk Mosque’s Beauty

Nasir-al Mulk Mosque, also known as the Pink Mosque, is a renowned and highly sought-after attraction in Shiraz, Iran. It was constructed during the reign

How to Get Iran Visa for Afghan Citizens?

Any Afghan citizen interested in traveling to Iran, regardless of the intention, needs to get a visa beforehand. Afghans who have a residence permit from

Top 10 dishes you must try in Iran

What is Persan cuisine? Persian cuisine is among the most popular and delicious ones all around the world. | Rashin Travel

The 8 Best Ski Resorts in Iran

If you are planning to travel to Iran and go skiing in the winter, you surely won’t be disappointed. Iran is a mountainous country with

Iran lifts visa requirements for visitors from 33 countries

Iran has recently made an exciting announcement for travelers around the world. In a bid to boost tourism, Iran has expanded its visa-free access to

How Christmas is Celebrated in Iran?

Being a Muslim country, Christmas is not celebrated officially in Iran. Christmas is celebrated only by the Christian community of this country. Only 0.4% of

10 Reasons Why Iran Visa Applications Get Rejected

What makes Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs reject providing you with an Iran Visa? Many Iran visa applicants get confused and unable to exactly understand

The Most Beautiful Villages in Iran

Iran is a country of contrasts, from its bustling cities to its tranquil villages. While Iran’s cities are known for their grand architecture and rich

Drinking Alcohol in Iran: What Travelers Need to Know

Many people are not aware of the alcohol laws in Islamic countries such as Iran. Some Muslim countries have very strict laws about alcohol, while others are more relaxed. In general, drinking in public and processing alcohol without permit is illegal in most Islamic countries. As a traveler, it’s important to understand the cultural and legal implications of drinking in Iran. In this post, we’ll explore the history of alcohol in Iran, the current laws and customs, and what travelers need to know before indulging in a drink. If you’re planning a trip to Iran, be sure to also check out our blog post on “What to Expect When Traveling to Iran” for more information.

Iran Lifts All COVID-19 Travel Restrictions

As of 25 July 2023, Iran has removed all COVID-19 related travel restrictions, allowing international arrivals to enter freely. However, it is important to note that an Iran visa is still required in order to travel to the country. This article aims to provide you with the necessary information about the current COVID-19 situation in Iran and the requirements you need to be aware of before planning your trip.

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Iran Travel Blog

From ancient Persian foods up to today’s

Persian Flowers from ancient Persia to Iranian culture

Through the different effects of culture in Iranian business

Tracing the History of Education in Iran

Recipe of different popular Persian Omelet

Cross the volcanoes peaks in Iran

All the details about Iran Insurance Companies

How Persian cooks give Fesenjoon recipe?

Nowruz eggs, inseparable part of Haftseen table

Eram Garden a symbol of Persian Gardens in UNESCO list

Sizdah Bedar, getting rid of the day 13 or towards the valley

The Festival of Persian New Year, Nowruz, and its Rituals

History and the traditions of Chaharshanbe Suri in Iran

A Journey through Iran Beaches from South to North

House of Strength or Zourkhaneh a Place for Heroic Rituals

Cyrus Cylinder the First Declaration of Human Rights

Pink or Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque a Revolution in Islamic Architecture

Sarv-e Abarkuh, the Oldest Iran Living Heritage

How princess Qajar pass their life?

Yalda Night, Ancient National Treasure, a Nice Welcome to Winter

Naaz Island, The Dream of Walking Through The Sea

An Authentic Trip to Iran Zoroastrian and Fire Temples

Naghshe Jahan, the most famous Square in the world

Dakhma or Tower of Silence the Place for Mourning in Ancient Iran

Everything about Hafezieh

Persian Customs and traditions and their celebration

All you need to know about Isfahan Bird garden

Is Iran a Good Destination for Travel?

A Trip to Shahzadeh Gardens Mahan

Overview of Traditional Music Instruments of Iran

Do Not Miss Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque In Isfahan

Which season is the best to visit Iran?

Adventure Trekking through Lut Desert

Best UNESCO world heritage attraction of iran

Experience of unforgettable travel to Isfahan by train

Everything to Know About Travelling from Germany to Iran

Is it necessary to have insurance for travel to Iran ?

All things about travel to iran from Canada

Travel to Visit and Explore Facts about the Tomb of Cyrus the Great

The 8 best Iran wildlife and natural places

List of Tehran tourist attractions

Eeverything tourist should know about hijab in iran

Is it safe for tourists to travel to Iran?

Where is the best photography location in Iran?

The most important things to know before visiting Iran

everything about dizin ski resort of tehran

where are the most beautiful natural places in iran?

Important things to know about Iran visa on arrival experience

What Is the Most Popular Food in Iran?

The Top 10 Historical Sites to Visit in Iran

When is Kashan rose water festival?

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Uppersia (Pazira Travel company) is a professional Iranian tour operator arranging Iran tours, Iran tourist visa, transport and hotels. Travel to Iran and experience Iranian hospitality.

Saturday, March 9, 2024

Planning a trip to iran in march 2024 may be a head-scratcher.

Exploring Iran during the 2024 Nowruz Persian holidays when it coincides with the Ramadan holy month will provide a rich tapestry of experiences for travelers. While monuments may be bustling with visitors and hotels fully booked, the pleasant weather and the chance to immerse oneself in significant Persian traditions make it a truly special time to visit.

Interacting with locals during Nowruz allows travelers to witness the vibrant celebrations and cultural practices that have been passed down through generations. The warmth and hospitality of the Iranian people during this festive period create lasting memories for visitors.

However, the restrictions on eating in public during Ramadan add an extra layer of cultural immersion for travelers. While it may pose challenges, it also offers a unique opportunity to witness the observance of Ramadan in Iran firsthand. The peaceful atmosphere during the day and the lively gatherings at night provide a deeper understanding of the spiritual significance of this holy month for the Muslim community.

Overall, the convergence of Nowruz and Ramadan in 2024 in Iran promises a one-of-a-kind travel experience that combines rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality, and the opportunity to witness the intersection of two important traditions in the country.

Monday, November 13, 2023

Best iran tours for small groups in 2024.

  Are you ready for an adventure like no other? Join us on a journey through the enchanting land of Iran in 2024! Uppersia Travel is thrilled to offer you an unforgettable small group holiday experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Picture this: a small group of like-minded travelers, exploring the hidden gems of Iran together. As we embark on this extraordinary adventure, we will be guided by our expert tour leaders who are passionate about showcasing the beauty and rich history of this remarkable country.

Our journey usually begins in the bustling capital city of Tehran, where we will be greeted with warm smiles and open arms. From there, we will venture into the heart of Iran, visiting ancient cities, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and breathtaking natural wonders.

One of the highlights of our trip will be often a visit to the mesmerizing city of Isfahan. Known for its stunning architecture and vibrant bazaars, Isfahan will captivate your senses. We will stroll through the famous Naqsh-e Jahan Square, marvel at the intricate designs of the Imam Mosque, and immerse ourselves in the local culture as we explore the bustling markets.

Next, we will journey to the ancient city of Yazd, a UNESCO World Heritage site that feels like stepping back in time. Get lost in the maze-like streets of the old town, marvel at the stunning windcatchers, and learn about the Zoroastrian culture that has thrived here for centuries.

No trip to Iran would be complete without a visit to the majestic city of Shiraz. Known as the city of poets, Shiraz is home to some of the most beautiful gardens and historic sites in the country. We will wander through the fragrant gardens of Eram, visit the stunning Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, and pay our respects at the tomb of the great Persian poet, Hafez.

As we make our way through the diverse landscapes of Iran, we will also have the opportunity to explore the stunning deserts, hike through picturesque mountains, and relax by the tranquil shores of the Caspian Sea. Each day will bring new adventures and unforgettable experiences.

At Uppersia Travel, we believe that small group tours offer a more intimate and immersive travel experience. With a maximum group size of 12, you will have the opportunity to connect with your fellow travelers, share stories, and create lifelong friendships.

So, are you ready to embark on this extraordinary journey through Iran? Join us in 2024 and let Uppersia Travel take you on an adventure of a lifetime. Get ready to be inspired, amazed, and transformed by the beauty and hospitality of Iran. Book your spot today and let the countdown to an unforgettable small group holiday begin!

Wednesday, October 4, 2023

Ilam tour by uppersia.

📷 Seimare River in Badreh County, Ilam Province, Iran

✍🏻 Travel back in time to the ancient cradle of civilization, nestled in the striking Zagros Mountains of Western Iran where the Simareh River has played a pivotal role. Surprisingly, even today, this region remains a hidden gem, with new roads being built to unlock its hidden treasures. Long ago, fearless explorers and researchers spent months studying the Luri ethnic tribes that call this area home.

🚌 Experience the Ilam Cooking Day Tour With Uppersia Travel

Join our local tour guide in Ilam for an unforgettable culinary journey. Learn how to prepare the local cuisine and indulge in some food-based experiences that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Saturday, September 30, 2023

Mesopotamia tour | summer 2023.

Our Autumn Iran tours have just launched, and we've said farewell to some of the most epic adventures with our globetrotting friends during the last summer. We explored every nook and cranny of Iran, even braving scorching temperatures of 55 degrees Celsius in places like Shushtar (as seen in this epic snapshot). But we also explored cooler, refreshing spots like Ardabil. Want to join us for an unforgettable journey? Hop on board!

The Remarkable Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System

Shushtar's astonishing hydraulic system, consisting of waterfalls dug into the rocks and diversion canals that supply water to the city, has been recognized as a masterpiece of creative genius. The mills, considered masterpieces for over 1,600 years, can be traced back to Darius the Great in the 5th century BC. The hydraulic system is complete, with numerous functions, making it exceptional. It is a homogeneous hydraulic system, designed globally and completed in the 3rd century CE, as rich in its diversity of civil engineering structures and its constructions as in the diversity of its uses (urban water supply, mills, irrigation, river transport and defense systems). The Shushtar hydraulic system is a testament to the heritage and the synthesis of earlier Elamite and Mesopotamian know-how, and it was probably influenced by the Petra Dam and tunnel and by Roman civil engineering. The system includes the Salasel Castle, the operation center of the entire hydraulic system, the tower where the water level is measured, dams, bridges, basins, and mills. The Gargar Canal, a veritable artificial watercourse, made possible the construction of a new town and the irrigation of a vast plain, at the time semi-desert. Shushtar historical hydraulic system demonstrates outstanding universal value as in its present form which dates back to the 3rd century CE and probably on older bases from the 5th century CE. It is considered a wonder of the world, not only by the Persians but also by the Arab-Muslims at the peak of their civilization, and sits in an urban and rural landscape specific to the expression of its value.

Wednesday, January 25, 2023

Upperisa travel iran journal : iran travel guide to iran overland adventure.

We have published several exciting articles on traveling to Iran and also about Iranian highlights that we would like to share their titles with you:

Iran travel guide 2023, traveling to iran as a country with different regulations, culture and language may look complicated when you start thinking and planning about it so we have offered facts about traveling to iran and tips on how to explore the country., persepolis tour as a revealing excursion into ancient iran  , persepolis or takht-e jamishid is one of the must-sees of iran and is a unesco world heritage site. so we have bundled the information and tips we think might come useful when you want to visit this monument., iran on wheels : an adrenaline pumping adventure  , traveling in iran with your own vehicle such as car, motorbike or bike is a great adventure considering amazing landscapes, nice on-roads and exciting off-roads. we have offered a detailed travel guide for motorcyclists, cyclists and drivers planning to visit iran., persian caviar on an appetizing culinary activity in iran, when you hear about caviar (khaviar) the next work that comes to your mind is "persian caviar". caviar or unfertilized eggs of iranian sturgeons are considered one of the best types of caviar in the world. we have scratched the surface of this food from the caspian see., why you'll love shiraz  , shiraz city is not just about its grapes but also its amazing persian gardens, beautiful qajari and pahlavi houses and mansions, famous persian poets and the unesco world heritage sites around the city including persepolis, naghsh-e rostam, bishapur, firuzabad and sarvestan. learn more about shiraz in this article., embracing an iranian winter: 7 reasons to visit iran in its off-season   , one should not miss traveling to iran in winter as it offers skiing in nice ski resorts around tehran and the great climate in south of iran including persian gulf islands. we have bundled the reasons for traveling to iran in winter so that you can decide and plan. , iran trip puts less pressure on pockets + 4 reasons, iran is one of the cheap countries to travel in for travelers on tight budget. we have offered why it is a budget destination for travelers and backpackers., top 10 highlights of golestan palace | video walk, golestan complex is the only unesco world heritage site in tehran and absolutely is worth a visit. you will marvel at persian arts and what qajars have left in history., tuesday, december 13, 2022.

Ali Qapoo Music Hall

Built at the very end of the 16th century, Ali Qapu, is one of the most magnificent palaces of the Persian Empire’s Safavid Era. This six-storied monument is located on the western side of the Naqsh-e Jahan Square opposite to Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque and had been originally designed as a vast portal.   The elegant Ali Qapu mansion on the sixth floor has a large completely plastered hall, which is also known as the music hall. The interweaving beauty of architecture and science of acoustics performed in this hall, proves the ingenuity of Iranian architects. This hall’s ornamentation is a smart decorative invention of Safavid era, based on the physical recognition of the sound and its reflective characteristic. Besides providing beauty to this glorious hall, this jar-shaped cornices caused the sound of music to spread more clearly and vividly. In ceremonies and feasts Iranian music masters gathered in music hall and played heavenly music pieces by traditional music instruments such as setar, kamancheh, tonbak, daf and etc. This magical hall still echoes the sounds of Iranian history and peaceful culture. Walk through the ancient yet alive remains of Naqsh e Jahan Square and touch the memories of Safavid days in Isfahan.

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The U.S. issues new travel guidelines, warning that Iran will avenge the killings of senior commanders.

The State Department has barred its employees from traveling to large parts of Israel. Iran has repeatedly vowed to strike back over the deadly bombing this month of an Iranian Embassy complex in Syria.

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By Liam Stack and Eric Schmitt

• April 12, 2024

Several countries including the United States have issued new travel guidelines for Israel and the surrounding region, as the Israeli military said its forces were “highly alert” for a possible Iranian strike in retaliation for the killings of several commanders.

Iran has repeatedly vowed to strike back at Israel over the bombing of an Iranian Embassy complex in Damascus, Syria, this month that killed three generals and four other military officers. An American official said on Friday that Washington expects an attack by Iran against Israel that would be bigger than recent attacks in the long shadow war between the two countries, but not so big that it would draw the United States into war. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter.

The U.S. State Department on Thursday barred its employees from traveling to large parts of Israel, the first time the U.S. government had restricted the movement of its employees in this way since the war in Gaza began more than six months ago.

On Thursday, Britain told its citizens that they “should consider leaving” Israel and the Palestinian territories “if it is safe to do so.” On Friday, India told its citizens “not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice,” while France advised people not to travel to Israel, Iran or Lebanon and evacuated the families of French diplomats from Iran.

Asked about the U.S. travel warning , Matthew Miller, the State Department spokesman, said at a news briefing Thursday: “We have seen Iran making public threats against Israel in the past few days.” He declined to provide details about any specific information that prompted the warning.

The new guidelines bar U.S. government employees and their families from traveling to locations outside the Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Beersheba metropolitan areas “out of an abundance of caution” until further notice. The State Department said U.S. personnel could move among those areas for personal travel.

The top American military commander for the Middle East, Gen. Michael E. Kurilla, traveled to Israel to coordinate a response to possible Iranian retaliation, U.S. officials said.

“Our enemies think that they will divide Israel and the United States,” the Israeli defense minister, Yoav Gallant, said in a statement on Friday after meeting with General Kurilla. “They are connecting us and are strengthening the relationship between us.”

If Iran attacks, he added, “we will know how to respond.”

On Thursday, the Israeli military’s chief spokesman, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, said that the armed forces were “highly alert and prepared” for any action Iran might take, even as the timing and scale of any response remained unclear. Analysts say that Tehran, which has long used a network of proxy forces to project power across the Middle East, wants to avoid igniting a full-fledged war that could drag in the United States and threaten the survival of Iran’s regime.

“For years, and even more so during the war, Iran has been financing, directing and arming its proxies — in Lebanon, Gaza, Syria, Iraq and Yemen — to attack the state of Israel,” he said. “An attack from Iranian territory would be clear evidence of Iran’s intentions to escalate the Middle East and stop hiding behind the proxies.”

Liam Stack is a Times reporter covering the Israel-Hamas war from Jerusalem. More about Liam Stack

Eric Schmitt is a national security correspondent for The Times, focusing on U.S. military affairs and counterterrorism issues overseas, topics he has reported on for more than three decades. More about Eric Schmitt

Our Coverage of the Israel-Hamas War

News and Analysis

Gazans released from Israeli detention described graphic scenes of physical abuse  in testimonies gathered by U.N. workers, according to a new report.

Britain, the United States, France and other allies of Israel have voiced their anger over the death toll in Gaza, but when Iran launched a missile barrage at Israel, they set it aside . At least for the moment.

The Israel pavilion at the Venice Biennale is closed this year, since its creative team decided not to exhibit work  until there was a cease-fire and hostage deal in Gaza, but it was nonetheless the site of a large demonstration .

Mobilizing the American Left: As the death toll in Gaza climbed, the pro-Palestinian movement grew into a powerful, if disjointed, political force in the United States . Democrats are feeling the pressure.

Riding Rage Over Israel: Jackson Hinkle’s incendiary commentary  has generated over two million new followers on X since October — a surge that some researchers say is aided by inauthentic accounts by the online celebrity.

Psychedelics and Trauma: Thousands of festival-goers were using mind-altering substances when Hamas-led fighters attacked on Oct 7. Now, scientists are studying the effects of such drugs at a moment of trauma .

Turmoil at J Street: The war in Gaza has raised serious concerns within the Jewish political advocacy group about its ability to hold a middle position  without being pulled apart by forces on the right and the left.

Middle East latest: Israel 'considered revenge attack on Monday' – as ex-Mossad intelligence chief says striking Iran's nuclear facilities 'on the table'

A former Israeli spy agency official says targeting nuclear facilities in Iran is "on the table" - as a report suggests Israel considered, but decided against striking Iran on Monday. Meanwhile, Iran's president warns the "tiniest move" against the country would bring a "fierce" response.

Thursday 18 April 2024 03:09, UK

• Israel-Hamas war

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• Qatar 're-assessing its role as mediator' as talks hit stumbling block
• Striking Iran's nuclear facilities on the table, says ex-Mossad official
• Israel considered Iran strike on Monday but decided to wait - report
• 'Tiniest move' against Iran will spark 'fierce and painful' response, president warns
• Dominic Waghorn analysis: The coming hours could decide whether the Middle East is plunged into a widening war
• Michael Clarke analysis: All Israel's options for retaliation come with complications

We'll be back later this morning with more news and analysis from the Middle East.

European Union leaders have decided to step up sanctions against Iran.

The move comes after Tehran's missile and drone attack on Israel left world powers desperately scrambling to prevent a wider conflict in the Middle East.

The EU's 27 national leaders met in Brussels earlier - the first time the group has met since Saturday's attack.

They condemned the Iranian attack, reaffirmed their commitment to Israel's security and called on all sides to prevent more tensions, including in Lebanon.

"The European Union will take further restrictive measures against Iran, notably in relation to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and missiles," they said in a joint statement.

These images show an Israeli Sa'ar-6 corvette warship patrolling the waters of the Israeli city of Eilat. 

The vessel is believed to be carrying an Iron Dome anti-missile system - one of a reported 10 that Israel owns and operates to defend its skies. 

Italy's foreign minister says Rome would be willing to contribute troops to any possible United Nations peacekeeping force in Gaza, even though no such proposal is on the table and Israel has previously rejected the idea.

In an interview with AP, Antonio Tajani suggested that a UN force under Arab command could help provide security if Israelis and Palestinians made headway on an eventual two-state solution. 

"If there is the solution and for a short time we need the presence of the United Nations under Arab control, we are ready for sending Italian soldiers," Mr Tajani said ahead of a G7 foreign ministers meeting in Capri.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has in the past ruled out a foreign peacekeeping force in Gaza after the war, saying only Israel is capable of keeping the territory demilitarised.

By Alex Crawford , special correspondent 

Lebanon is balanced as though on an earthquake faultline right now - whatever Israel decides to do next will have massive repercussions throughout the entire region.

That's how critical the situation is in Lebanon and the surrounding countries, as described by one seasoned Lebanese political analyst.

Khodor Taleb is also the former adviser to three different Lebanese prime ministers, so knows a thing or two about what is at stake.

Lebanon - like the entire region - is at the crossroads and it is Israel in the driving seat over which road is travelled.

'The situation will be totally out of control'

"I can tell you 100% that Hezbollah do not want war. The ball is in the Israeli court," Mr Taleb told Sky News.

The militant group Hezbollah is backed by Iran and has strong ties with both the Iranian leadership and the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC).

It is very much seen as the strongest and most powerful of Iran's proxies which operate in multiple countries.

It is therefore potentially in the Israeli crosshairs as it considers how or whether to retaliate against Iran and its network in response to the missile and drone attacks at the weekend.

Mr Taleb is not an isolated voice in warning that an Israeli attack could tip the region into all-out war.

"It will be a huge risk for Israel because it will lead to a big war in the region," he said.

"It will not be limited to Lebanon. It will definitely spread to Yemen and most probably to the Syrian Golan and the situation will be totally out of control of any international power," he continued.

"It will be damaging to the whole region."

His point: Any large-scale Israeli attack against the Lebanese Hezbollah or Iran risks drawing the entire so-called Axis of Resistance into war - and that would involve the Yemeni Houthis, the Iraqi Hezbollah and the various Syrian militias - all of which have links to Iran or Hezbollah.

Read more of Crawford's piece here ....

The funeral for Hezbollah commander Ismail Yusaf Baz has been held in Chehabiyeh, Lebanon. 

The head of the militant group's coastal sector was "eliminated" in a strike in the Ain Ebel area yesterday, the Israel Defence Forces said.

As we reported in our 8.39pm post, Hezbollah responded today by launching missiles and drones at a military facility in northern Israel - injuring some 14 IDF troops. 

Iran is currently holding its National Army Day parade ceremony in Tehran. 

Drones and missiles were paraded as soldiers marched alongside them, some carrying the Iranian flag. 

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and other top military officials are also in attendance. 

The annual event was established by the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran in 1979. 

An update on our 12.40pm post - in which we reported that strikes from Lebanon had injured people in northern Israel.

The Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group has since claimed responsibility, saying it launched missiles and drones at a military facility in northern Israel in retaliation for Israeli strikes that killed Hezbollah members yesterday. 

At least 14 Israeli soldiers were injured in today's attack, with six in serious condition, according to the Israel Defence Forces. 

The Israeli Ynet news site said the soldiers were in a community centre in the village. 

The IDF in retaliation said it "struck the sources of fire" after identifying several anti-tank missile and drone launches from Lebanon towards the Bedouin village of Arab al Aramshe. 

For context: Iran-backed, Lebanon-based Hezbollah, which means "Party of God" in Arabic, openly calls for the destruction of the "Zionist regime in Palestine" and is deemed a terror organisation by most Western powers.

The militia has long aligned itself with Hamas and Islamic Jihad and has frequently clashed with IDF forces on the Israel-Lebanon border since the most recent conflict broke out on 7 October.

But the violence has largely been contained to areas at the border, shaped by what observers have called unwritten rules of engagement between adversaries that have long threatened each other with catastrophic damage in the event of war.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has previously warned that Beirut would be turned "into Gaza" if Hezbollah started an all-out war.

By Ben van der Merwe and Saywah Mahmood, Data and Forensics Unit

Iran's president has vowed Israel would face a "massive and harsh response" if it attacks, as US officials believe it is planning to do.

Iran launched more than 330 missiles and drones towards Israel on Saturday in response to Israel's alleged bombing of its Syrian consulate.

On Wednesday, Foreign Secretary Lord David Cameron said he hoped that Israel's potential retaliation "does as little as possible to escalate this conflict".

Experts told Sky News that Israel is likely to be considering an airstrike on critical Iranian infrastructure, including air bases and nuclear facilities.

Israel is well-equipped for such an operation. The country possesses 39 state-of-the-art F-35 stealth fighter jets, the fifth largest inventory in the world.

Sky News security and defence analyst Michael Clarke says the planes are "pretty well invisible".

"It is rumoured that Israeli F-35s have already been around and about Iranian airspace on surveillance missions," he says.

Read more here ...

The chancellor has said that the G7 will be "united" in its response to Tehran, amid reports that the West is weighing up major sanctions on Iran. 

"When Iran attacked Israel, Western support was rock solid," Jeremy Hunt told our economics and data editor Ed Conway . 

"If Iran takes action that destabilises the global economy through what it does in the Middle East, then they will face concerted response from Western countries," he warned. 

"I think G7 countries will be united in our response to what Iran has done and anything Iran may plan to do."

Earlier, Israel's ambassador to the UK urged the West to hit Tehran financially so its grasp on the region via its proxies might slip. 

"This is the time to be hard on Iran [and] there are a number of diplomatic ways to do that." Tzipi Hotovely said (see 7.00pm post). 

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Brian Barrett

How Israel Defended Against Iran's Drone and Missile Attack

On Saturday, Iran launched more than 300 drones and cruise missiles at Israel , a response to a strike earlier this month against Iran's embassy in Syria. As they made their way to their target, Israel invoked a number of defense systems to impede their progress. That starts with the Iron Dome.

The Iron Dome , operational for well over a decade , comprises at least 10 missile-defense batteries strategically distributed around the country. When radar detects incoming objects, it sends that information back to a command-and-control center, which will track the threat to assess whether it’s a false alarm, and where it might hit if it’s not. The system then fires interceptor missiles at the incoming rockets that seem most likely to hit an inhabited area.

“All of that process was designed for defense against low-flying, fast-moving missiles,” says Iain Boyd, director of the Center for National Security Initiatives at the University of Colorado. Which also makes it well prepared for an onslaught of drones. “A drone is going to be flying probably slower than these rockets,” Boyd says, “so in some ways it’s an easier threat to address.”

Things get more complicated if the drones are flying so low that the radar can’t detect them. The biggest challenge to the Iron Dome, though, is sheer quantity. Israel has hundreds of interceptor missiles at its disposal, but it’s still possible for the Iron Dome to get overwhelmed, as it did on October 7 when Hamas attacked Israel with a barrage of thousands of missiles.

Israel officials say that the Iron Dome and other systems successfully defended against 99 percent of the Iranian drones and missiles, although a 10-year-old boy was reportedly injured by shrapnel from an interceptor.

While the Iron Dome is Israel’s last line of defense, it’s not the only factor that came into play. The UAVs in question are likely Iran-made Shahed-136 drones, which have played a prominent role in Russia’s war against Ukraine . These so-called suicide drones—it has a built-in warhead and is designed to crash into targets—are relatively cheap to produce, which is why Iran was able to send them in such quantity.

“At one level they’re not difficult to take down. They’re not stealthy, they don’t fly very fast, and they don’t maneuver,” says David Ochmanek, senior defense analyst at the nonprofit RAND Corporation. “In some way, they're like airborne targets.”

That slowness and fixed flight path in particular mean the unmanned aerial systems (UAS) had to travel for several hours before they reached their intended destination, leaving ample opportunities to intercept them.

“Because there’s so much indication of warning in advance of the UAS, presumably there’s going to be a lot of fixed-wing, manned aircraft that are looking at these things, tracking these things, and presumably trying to engage these things,” says Tom Karako, director of the Missile Defense Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a policy think tank.

Megan Farokhmanesh

Carlton Reid

Dell Cameron

Ryan Waniata

Some of that work fell to the US military; CNN reports that forces in the region intercepted more than 70 drones and “at least three” ballistic missiles. The UK said it also provided backup for US planes that had been diverted from their existing missions, and that it would intercept UAVs as well.

That doesn't mean, though, that these drones should be taken lightly. “They have high-explosive warheads of several hundred pounds. If one hits a building, it'll destroy that building,” says Ochmanek. “The other thing is, they fly low. If you have a ground-based radar, they don't break the horizon until they're fairly close to the target, so the engagement time is limited.”

Israel’s further-reaching defense systems also came into play. The country’s Arrow 3 antiballistic missiles can intercept exo-atmospheric targets—that is to say, in space—while Arrow 2 systems have less range but are still considered extremely effective. Israeli military spokesperson Daniel Hagari credited the Arrow system with taking out most of Iran’s ballistic missiles. There’s also the “David’s Sling” system, which has a much shorter range than Arrow but should prove effective against drone attacks.

Hagari also said that the country would scramble GPS signals as a further effort to disrupt the incoming UAVs.

The question now is whether the tensions will escalate from here, and how Israel’s air defense resources hold up after October 7 and months of sustained attacks on Gaza. “I think that’s probably part of the strategy on the part of Iran, is that the last six months has probably depleted the number of interceptors available to the Iron Dome systems,” says Boyd. “They saw for themselves the effectiveness of the Hamas attack. I think they’re trying to use the same approach.”

In an update Sunday morning local time, Hagari said Israel had intercepted most of the dozens of surface-to-surface missiles Iran had launched thus far, along with more than 10 cruise missiles and dozens of UAVs, all outside of Israel’s territory. Iran has indicated that the attack is over and that it considers the matter settled, but warned against retaliation from Israel.

“Should the Israeli regime commit any military aggression again, Iran's response will assuredly and decisively be stronger, and more resolute,” said Iranian ambassador Amir-Saeid Iravani in a letter to the United Nations.

“What I would be concerned about,” says Karako, “is what we haven’t yet seen.”

Update 4/13/2024, 9:33 pm ET: Added comment from RAND Corporation's David Ochmanek.

Update 4/14/2024, 9:00 am ET: Added latest details from the attack and a statement from Iran's UN ambassador.

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G7 releases statement condemning Iran retaliatory attacks on Israel – as it happened

This blog is now closed

• See all of our coverage on the Israel-Gaza war and the wider Middle East crisis .
• 3d ago Summary
• 3d ago IDF says it intercepted UAV that approached Israel 'from the southeast'
• 3d ago UN chief: 'The Middle East is on the brink'
• 3d ago Jordan's King Abdullah: Jordan 'won't be an arena for a regional war'
• 3d ago Palestinians continue to face Israeli attacks as Israel-Iran tensions escalate
• 3d ago Syria: Iran's attacks were a 'legitimate act of self-defence'
• 3d ago Bolivia's president warns of possible 'third world war' after Iran's attack on Israel
• 3d ago Summary of the day so far...
• 3d ago Biden tells Netanyahu he would oppose any Israeli counterattack against Iran -report
• 4d ago Iran informed Turkey in advance of its operation against Israel - source
• 4d ago Israel will exact price from Iran 'when time is right for us', war cabinet minister says
• 4d ago Major Middle East airlines to resume flights after Iran's attack on Israel
• 4d ago Iran's attack on Israel has taken the Middle East to the 'edge of a precipice', Germany's foreign minister says
• 4d ago Iran says it informed the US its attacks on Israel will be 'limited'
• 4d ago Sunak confirms UK jets shot down a number of Iranian drones and calls attack a 'dangerous and unnecessary escalation'
• 4d ago Summary of the day so far...
• 4d ago Iran summons the British, French and German ambassadors - report
• 4d ago Several Iranian airports cancel flights until Monday morning
• 4d ago Jordanian PM: Escalation in region would lead to 'dangerous paths'
• 4d ago Death toll in Gaza reaches 33,729, says health ministry
• 4d ago Most of the Iranian drones flying over Syria during Tehran's strikes were downed by Israeli and US jets - sources
• 4d ago British RAF typhoons 'involved in shooting down' Iranian drones over Syria and Iraq overnight - sources
• 4d ago Response will be much larger if Israel retaliates, Iran armed forces chief warns
• 4d ago Summary
• 4d ago Jordan and Iraq reopen their airspace
• 4d ago Israel's response to Iran attack will rest with war cabinet
• 4d ago Minor damage to infrastructure at Nevatim airbase, reports IDF
• 4d ago Israeli airspace reopens
• 4d ago Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant holds operational situation assessment
• 4d ago Iran attack on Israel 'foiled' - IDF spokesperson
• 4d ago IDF confirms more than 300 drones and missiles launched at Israel
• 4d ago US forces intercepted 'dozens' of missiles and drones, says defence secretary
• 4d ago US Senate majority leader calls for for supplemental aid bill to be passed
• 4d ago 'Nearly all' Iranian drones and missiles intercepted, says Biden
• 4d ago Thousands gather in Iran in show of support for attack on Israel - AFP
• 4d ago UN security council will hold emergency meeting Sunday
• 4d ago Netanyahu speaks with Joe Biden as war cabinet meeting concludes
• 4d ago Injuries at IDF base in south of Israel
• 4d ago Mitch McConnell calls for Congress to take action on supplemental bill that includes aid for Israel and Ukraine
• 4d ago Most missiles intercepted outside Israel's borders, IDF spokesperson says
• 4d ago US forces in the region shooting down Iranian-launched drones
• 4d ago Jordan's air force shooting down Iranian drones in airspace - reports
• 4d ago Iran's Revolutionary Guards release new statement
• 4d ago US embassy in Jerusalem tells government employees to shelter in place
• 4d ago Egypt calls on all parties to exercise 'utmost restraint'
• 4d ago Air travel disrupted across the region
• 4d ago Explosions visible in the sky in several places as air raid sirens blare out across the country
• 4d ago UK jets will intercept airborne attacks within range of existing missions, says Ministry of Defence
• 4d ago More than 100 drones launched against Israel, IDF says
• 4d ago Iran's mission to the UN gives statement on Israel attack
• 4d ago Rishi Sunak condemns Iran's 'reckless attack' on Israel
• 4d ago Joe Biden arrives at White House
• 4d ago Iran supreme leader Ali Khamenei: 'The malicious Zionist regime will be punished'
• 4d ago US National Security Council: 'The United States will stand with the people of Israel'
• 4d ago Joe Biden cuts short Delaware trip and heads back to White House
• 4d ago Benjamin Netanyahu: 'Whoever harms us, we will harm them'
• 4d ago Iran launches drones towards Israel, says IDF

This blog is now closed.

But you can follow all of our latest developments at our new live blog here .

And you can see all of our coverage on the Israel-Gaza war and the wider Middle East crisis .

The Israel-Gaza war continues in the background behind wider regional conflict and tensions.

This is one of the latest images coming out of Gaza – a long line of Palestinians are seen as they try to make their way back north.

US secretary of state Antony Blinken has discussed Iran ’s attack on Israel in separate calls with his Jordanian, Saudi Arabian, Egyptian and Turkish counterparts, according to the US state department.

Blinken reiterated that the US does not seek escalation and will continue to support Israel’s defense, Reuters reports.

In his call with Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry , he also discussed the need to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza and achieve an immediate ceasefire that secures the release of all hostages, according to the state department.

US House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson said on Sunday he would try to pass aid to Israel this week after Iran’s drone and missile attack.

Johnson is struggling to unify Republicans and avoid being ousted himself, recounted two failed attempts to pass standalone aid for Israel, Reuters reports.

“We’re going to try again this week, and the details of that package are being put together right now.

“We’re looking at the options, and all these supplemental issues,” Johnson told Fox News.

Johnson’s office declined to provide further details and he did not say whether the legislation would also include assistance for Ukraine and other allies.

Reged Ahmad here taking over from Maya Yang.

Here is where the day stands:

The Israel Defense Forces announced that it intercepted a UAV that approached Israel earlier this evening. In a post on X, the IDF wrote: “A Sa’ar 6-class corvette successfully intercepted a UAV that approached Israeli territory from the southeast using the ‘C-Dome’ Defense System earlier this evening.”

UN chief António Guterres called for maximum restraint on Sunday following Iran’s retaliatory attacks on Israel , Reuters reports. In a UN security council meeting, Guterres said: “The Middle East is on the brink. The people of the region are confronting a real danger of a devastating full-scale conflict. Now is the time to defuse and de-escalate.”

Jordan’s prime minister Bisher Khasawneh said that escalation in the region would lead to “dangerous paths,” Reuters reports. Speaking to the Jordanian cabinet, Khasawneh said. “The army will respond to anything that will jeopardise the security and safety of the kingdom and the sanctity of its airspace and territory in the face of any danger from any party with all the available means.”

The G7 has released the following statement on Iran’s retaliatory attacks on Israel: “We, the leaders of the G7, unequivocally condemn in the strongest terms Iran’s direct and unprecedented attack against Israel… We express our full solidarity and support to Israel and its people and reaffirm our commitment towards its security.”

Jordan has summoned the Iranian ambassador to protest against Iran’s comments which were regarded by Jordan as an inteference in the kingdom’s internal affairs, Reuters reports. Speaking to Jordan’s state-owned Mamlaka news outlet, Safadi referred to comments made by Iranian official media which warned that Jordan would be the next target in the event it cooperated with Israel in a showdown with Iran.

A senior Joe Biden administration official has told reporters on Sunday: “We are committed to defending Israel. We would not be a part of any response they do. This is a very consistent policy.” “Our aim is to deescalate regional tensions. We do not want a broader regional conflict. Our focus has been to contain this crisis,” the official added.

Iran’s action against Israel was a “legitimate act of self-defence,” Syria’s foreign minister Faisal Mekdad told his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian in a phone call on Sunday. Syrian state media SANA further reports: “It is a legitimate right to self-defense against this racist Zionist entity, which does not respect international law and will, nor the Charter of the United Nations.”

US air carrier United Airlines has canceled Sunday’s planned flight from Newark, New Jersey, to Tel Aviv following rising regional tensions, Reuters reports. The flight was set to take off from Newark at 3:20pm local time and land in Tel Aviv at 8:55am local time.

IDF says it intercepted UAV that approached Israel 'from the southeast'

The Israel Defense Forces announced that it intercepted a UAV that approached Israel earlier this evening.

In a post on X, the IDF wrote:

“A Sa’ar 6-class corvette successfully intercepted a UAV that approached Israeli territory from the southeast using the ‘C-Dome’ Defense System earlier this evening.’

A Sa'ar 6-class corvette successfully intercepted a UAV that approached Israeli territory from the southeast using the "C-Dome" Defense System earlier this evening. Watch the defense system's second operational interception within a week: pic.twitter.com/uTl7i5aAgg — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) April 14, 2024

British maritime security firm Ambrey said the IDF intercepted an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) nearby Eilat, Israel , stating that they assessed the UAV was launched from Yemen, Reuters reports.

Ambrey said they also observed unprecedented levels of Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) interference off Eilat and neighbouring Aqaba, Jordan, on the same day.

“These were due to electronic warfare counter-measures,” the statement said.

UN chief: 'The Middle East is on the brink'

UN chief António Guterres called for maximum restraint on Sunday following Iran’s retaliatory attacks on Israel , Reuters reports.

In a UN security council meeting, Guterres said:

“The Middle East is on the brink. The people of the region are confronting a real danger of a devastating full-scale conflict. Now is the time to defuse and de-escalate.”

Earlier this month, Israel killed a top Iranian commander, among other members of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, in a strike on Iran’s consulate in Damascus.

Here are some images coming through the newswires from Gaza where Israeli forces have killed over 33,000 Palestinians since October while forcibly displacing approximately 2 million survivors across the strip:

The White House has released the following readout of Joe Biden’s Sunday phone call with Jordan’s King Abdullah:

“President Biden spoke today with His Majesty King Abdullah II about the situation in the Middle East. President Biden strongly condemned the attack launched by Iran that also threatened Jordan and the Jordanian people. Both leaders noted that they continue to monitor the situation and will remain in close touch over the coming days. They also discussed the situation in Gaza, and reaffirmed their cooperation to increase critical humanitarian assistance to Gaza and to find a path to end the crisis as soon as possible.”

Jordan's King Abdullah: Jordan 'won't be an arena for a regional war'

Jordan’s prime minister Bisher Khasawneh said that escalation in the region would lead to “dangerous paths,” Reuters reports.

Speaking to the Jordanian cabinet, Khasawneh said:

“There is need for all parties to act responsibly and exercise utmost degree of self restraint... and not be dragged towards any escalation that will no doubt have dangerous consequences… The army will respond to anything that will jeopardise the security and safety of the kingdom and the sanctity of its airspace and territory in the face of any danger from any party with all the available means.”

In a phone call with US president Joe Biden on Sunday, Jordan’s King Abdullah also said that Jordan “won’t be an arena for a regional war” and said that any “escalation by Israel would only widen the circle of conflict.”

Palestinians continue to face Israeli attacks as Israel-Iran tensions escalate

With the world focused on the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran, Palestinians continue to face attacks by Israeli forces across the Gaza Strip.

In a series of posts on X, the Palestine Red Crescent Society showed its teams treating Palestinians injured by Israeli attacks in recent days:

PRCS team persists their work at the Medical Post in #Jabalia , northern #Gaza , providing #medical services to patients and the wounded in the area. 📷Filmed by PRCS volunteer: Yousef Khader #HumantarianHeroes pic.twitter.com/vA2MNYAcKp — PRCS (@PalestineRCS) April 14, 2024

🚨The Palestine Red Crescent teams transported two injuries from the eastern part of Al-Maghazi Camp in central #Gaza Strip due to the targeting by the Israeli occupation of a commercial store there. 📷Filmed by PRCS volunteer: Musa AlQatawi pic.twitter.com/r85lrkpjqm — PRCS (@PalestineRCS) April 14, 2024

A paramedic from the Palestine Red Crescent ambulance teams is providing first aid to a wounded child following the occupation's targeting of a house in the city of Deir al-Balah, in the central #Gaza Strip. 📷Filmed by PRCS volunteer: Mohammed Suliman pic.twitter.com/E61ySxT15D — PRCS (@PalestineRCS) April 12, 2024

Since last October, Israeli forces have killed over 33,600 Palestinians while displacing over 2 million survivors across the strip amid a widespread man-made famine as a result of Israeli aid restrictions.

The G7 has released the following statement on Iran’s retaliatory attacks on Israel:

“We, the leaders of the G7, unequivocally condemn in the strongest terms Iran’s direct and unprecedented attack against Israel. Iran fired hundreds of drones and missiles towards Israel. Israel, with the help of its partners, defeated the attack. We express our full solidarity and support to Israel and its people and reaffirm our commitment towards its security. With its actions, Iran has further stepped toward the destabilization of the region and risks provoking an uncontrollable regional escalation. This must be avoided. We will continue to work to stabilize the situation and avoid further escalation. In this spirit, we demand that Iran and its proxies cease their attacks, and we stand ready to take further measures now and in response to further destabilizing initiatives. We will also strengthen our cooperation to end the crisis in Gaza, including by continuing to work towards an immediate and sustainable ceasefire and the release of hostages by Hamas, and deliver increased humanitarian assistance to Palestinians in need.”

Jordan has summoned the Iranian ambassador to protest against Iran’s comments which were regarded by Jordan as an inteference in the kingdom’s internal affairs, Reuters reports.

Speaking to Jordan’s state-owned Mamlaka news outlet, Safadi referred to comments made by Iranian official media which warned that Jordan would be the next target in the event it cooperated with Israel in a showdown with Iran.

A senior Joe Biden administration official has told reporters on Sunday: “We are committed to defending Israel. We would not be a part of any response they do. This is a very consistent policy.”

“Our aim is to deescalate regional tensions. We do not want a broader regional conflict. Our focus has been to contain this crisis,” the official added.

A senior US military official added:

“Israel has made clear to us they’re not looking for a significant escalation with Iran. That’s not what they’re looking for. They’re looking to protect themselves and defend themselves.”

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Flights cancelled and disrupted after Iran's attack on Israel

• Published 2 days ago

Airline passengers are facing cancellations or disruption to flights to Israel and surrounding countries after Iran's airstrikes at the weekend.

EasyJet has suspended flights to and from Tel Aviv up to and including Sunday, 21 April.

Wizz Air said it would resume journeys to Israel on Tuesday, 16 April after stopping flights to Tel Aviv on Sunday and Monday.

However, it warned: "Passengers may experience some schedule changes."

Wizz Air said that it was "closely monitoring the situation with the relevant authorities and keeping its passengers informed of all schedule changes".

"All passengers affected by the schedule changes will be provided with rebooking or refund options," it added.

Israel closed its airspace on Saturday evening after Iran launched its first-ever direct assault on the country. Iran launched drones and missiles towards Israel in retaliation for a strike on Tehran's consulate in Damascus on 1 April, which killed a number of senior Iranian commanders.

Israel has not said it carried out the consulate strike, but is widely believed to have been behind it.

• LATEST: Follow Israel-Iran latest news live
• EXPLAINED: Why has Iran attacked Israel?
• CATCH UP: How Iran's attack on Israel unfolded
• ANALYSIS: Can the US and its allies stop the slide into all-out war?

Israel reopened its airspace early on Sunday morning as did Jordan, Iraq and Lebanon, which had stopped flights for a period.

German airline group Lufthansa said that it had suspended flights to and from Tel Aviv, Erbil and Amman up to and including Monday, but said they would re-start on Tuesday.

However, it said that flights to Beirut and Tehran would remain suspended until at least 18 April.

A spokesperson said: "The Lufthansa Group had already decided on Friday, 12 April, to fly around Iranian airspace up to and including Thursday, 18 April, and thus temporarily suspend flights to Tehran."

Meanwhile, KLM cancelled all flights to and from Tel Aviv until Tuesday.

Re-routed flights

Other airlines are re-routing their flights which could add time to journeys. Australia's Qantas said its planes are changing course to avoid Iran's airspace.

Virgin Atlantic said: "We are not currently overflying Iraq, Iran, or Israel, but we continue to monitor the situation for any potential impact on our operations.

"The safety and security of our customers and people is paramount and always will be. We apologise for any inconvenience caused to customers by slightly longer flight times."

The airline stopped flying to Israel last year but a spokesperson said it was aiming to resume journeys in September.

British Airways said there would be a flight to Tel Aviv on Monday, but added it was keeping the situation under review.

The UK flag carrier, which is owned by International Airlines Group (IAG), restarted flights to Israel earlier this month after suspending journeys last October.

It had been operating four flights a week to Israel since the beginning of April. Planes stop at Larnaca in Cyprus where there is a crew change to avoid staff staying overnight in Tel Aviv. The flights then operate non-stop from Tel Aviv to the UK.

Iberia Express, also owned by IAG, cancelled flights to Tel Aviv on Sunday and Monday.

Finnair said that it had suspended operations over Iranian airspace until further notice. Flights from Doha will re-route over Egypt which, a spokesperson said, would result in delays of a "few minutes".

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) reiterated its previous guidance to airlines to use caution in Israeli and Iranian airspace.

"The European Commission and EASA will continue to closely monitor the situation to assess any potential safety risks for EU aircraft operators and be ready to act as appropriate," it said.

Qatar Airways said it had resumed flights to Iran, flying to Tehran, Mashhad, Shiraz and Isfahan. "The safety and security of our passengers remains our top priority," it said.

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