Hamadan - Discovering Iran

Travelling to Hamadan

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Hamadan, a pretty good destination in Iran (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Hamadan and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Hamadan, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Iran, here's everything to know about Hamadan for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Hamadan

Hamadan is an ancient city located in western Iran. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with over 3,000 years of history. It was formerly known as Ecbatana and was the capital of the ancient Median Empire. The city is known for its history, culture, and natural beauty, with attractions such as the mausoleum of Avicenna, the Ganjnameh inscriptions, and the biblical Esther and Mordechai tombs. Hamadan is also known for its local handicrafts, particularly rugs and pottery. The city has a moderate climate, with summers that can be warm and dry and winters that tend to be cold with occasional snowfall.

What to visit in Hamadan

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Hamadan, Iran: 1. Ali Sadr Cave: Ali Sadr Cave is a world-famous, an ancient cave located in the western part of Hamadan province. It is known for its extraordinary blue water, numerous passageways, and beautiful natural mineral formations.
2. Ganjnameh Inscriptions: Ganjnameh Inscriptions are ancient rock inscriptions located near Hamadan, Iran. The inscriptions are carved on the rocks and provide valuable historical information about the Achaemenid Dynasty, one of the world's greatest empires.
3. Tomb of Avicenna: Tomb of Avicenna is a mausoleum located in Hamadan, Iran. It belongs to the prominent Persian philosopher and physician Ibn Sina, who is known as Avicenna in the Western world. The mausoleum is a significant center of learning and pilgrimage for scholars and physicians.
4. Hegmataneh Hill: Hegmataneh Hill is an archaeological site located in the heart of Hamadan. It is known for its ancient ruins and artifacts that exhibit the rich history and culture of the Medes, Achaemenid, Parthian, and Sassanid Imperial periods.
5. Stone Lion: The ancient rock relief of Stone Lion is located in the historic Bisotun village, which is near Hamadan. The carving is a masterpiece of Persian art and depicts a large lion in combat with other animals.
These are some of the top tourist attractions in Hamadan, Iran, and each one offers a unique experience for visitors to enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Iran, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Hamadan.

When to go on holiday to Hamadan

The best time to visit Hamadan is during the months of April, May, and June or September and October when the temperatures are milder and more comfortable for outdoor activities. During these months, the average temperatures range from 25°C to 10°C. July and August can be uncomfortably hot with temperatures often exceeding 35°C. On the other hand, November to March is the coldest period in Hamadan, with temperatures going down to -15°C. So, it's better to avoid visiting Hamadan during this time, especially if you are not used to such cold temperatures.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Hamadan

There are several ways to get to Hamadan, Iran: 1. By air: You can fly to Tehran and then take a domestic flight to Hamadan. Hamadan airport is located about 10 km from the city center.
2. By bus: There are several intercity bus companies that operate between Tehran and Hamadan. The journey takes about 4-5 hours depending on traffic.
3. By car: You can rent a car in Tehran and drive to Hamadan. The journey takes about 3-4 hours.
I would recommend checking with a local travel agency or the Iranian embassy to ensure you have the most up-to-date information on travel restrictions, visa requirements, and safety precautions.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Hamadan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Hamadan

Hamadan is a city in western Iran, and there are some typical foods that you should try when visiting the region. Here are some of the popular dishes: 1. Tahchin: This is a rice dish that is layered with chicken, yogurt, and saffron. The rice is cooked until crispy on the bottom, and it is then flipped over onto a plate before serving.
2. Kufteh Hamadan: This is a meatball dish made with ground beef or lamb, rice, herbs, and eggs. The meatballs are typically cooked in a spicy tomato sauce.
3. Gheymeh: This is a stew made with lamb or beef, yellow split peas, tomato paste, and spices. The stew is typically served with rice.
4. Abgoosht: This is a meat soup made with lamb or beef, chickpeas, potatoes, and herbs. The soup is served with bread and sometimes yogurt.
5. Koofteh Tabrizi: This is another meatball dish, but the meatballs are stuffed with nuts, dried fruits, and spices. They are typically cooked in a tomato-based sauce.
6. Ash Reshteh: This is a traditional Iranian soup made with noodles, beans, herbs, and spices. It is typically served with fried onions and mint.
7. Baghali Polo: This is a rice dish made with dill and broad beans. It is typically served with lamb or chicken.
8. Halim Bademjan: This is a stew made with lamb, eggplant, and tomatoes. It is typically served with rice.
You can find general info about typical foods in Iran here.

Is Hamadan an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other popular tourist destinations in Iran, Hamadan is relatively affordable. The cost of accommodations, food, and transportation is generally lower than other major cities. However, the cost of tourist attractions, guided tours, and activities can vary depending on your budget and level of interest. Overall, a trip to Hamadan can be an affordable and enjoyable experience for tourists.

Where to find accomodation in Hamadan

The best areas to find accommodation in Hamadan would be around the city center, or in the vicinity of popular attractions like the Ganjnameh Inscriptions, the Tomb of Esther and Mordechai, and the Ali Sadr Cave. Additionally, there are several hotels and guesthouses located near the Hamadan airport for those looking for easy access to transportation.
You can check hotel prices at Hamadan here:
Booking.com

Is Hamadan a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Hamadan is considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any other place in the world, it is important to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings. It is recommended to avoid political gatherings and demonstrations, and be respectful of local customs and traditions. Overall, the people in Hamadan are friendly and welcoming towards tourists, so you should have a pleasant and safe experience.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Iran here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Hamadan.

What type of travelers will enjoy Hamadan the most?

Hamadan in Iran is a destination that can be enjoyed by all types of travelers. The city has a rich cultural heritage and a variety of historical sites, which makes it a great place for those interested in history and architecture. Families can also benefit from the many parks and gardens around the city, such as the Ali-Sadr Cave, Ganjnameh Inscription, and Avicenna Mausoleum.
Couples looking for a romantic getaway would appreciate the beautiful scenery of the city and the romantic atmosphere of Hamadan's traditional cafes and restaurants. Young people would enjoy the vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining options the city has to offer.
Overall, Hamadan is a destination that caters to a wide range of travelers. Whether you're an enthusiastic traveler, a family on vacation, or a couple looking for a romantic getaway, you'll enjoy the historic sites, cultural experiences, and entertainment options the city has to offer.

How to get around Hamadan

In Hamadan, you can use various modes of transportation such as taxis, buses, and trains to move around the city. Taxis are the most convenient and widely used mode of transportation in Hamadan. You can easily hail a taxi on the streets or book one through a mobile application. Additionally, there are several bus routes throughout the city, which are an affordable option. Hamadan also has a railway station with trains that connect to other cities in Iran. However, train travel is more time-consuming compared to other modes of transportation in Hamadan.

What to see around Hamadan

1. Ganjnameh Inscriptions: an ancient cuneiform inscription located northwest of Hamadan city.
2. Alisadr Cave: the world's largest water cave located, about 100 km from Hamadan.
3. Avicenna Tomb: the burial site of Avicenna, a famous Persian philosopher and physician, located in the city of Hamedan.
4. Hegmataneh Hill: an archaeological site where the ancient city of Ecbatana was located, located in Hamadan city.
5. Baba Taher Tomb: the burial site of Baba Taher, a renowned Persian poet, located in Hamadan city.
6. Abass Abad Recreational Complex: a natural park with stunning scenery located about 25 km from Hamadan city.
7. Tuyserkan Waterfall: a beautiful waterfall located about 70 km from Hamadan city.
8. Alavian Dome: an ancient complex consisting of a shrine, mosque, and tomb, located in Hamadan city. 9. Mount Alvand: a popular hiking destination located about 3 km from Hamadan city.
10. Aladaghlar Mountain: a scenic mountain range located about 80 km from Hamadan city.
For every travel information about Iran you can click here.

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